Score-settling and statement-making in October is for chumps in a rivalry as one-sided in moments of truth as Wild-Blackhawks.
Minnesota has played Chicago 15 times the last three postseasons, boasting all of three wins. The Hawks' buzz-killing four-game sweep in May en route to a third Stanley Cup championship in six seasons was a chilling reminder they are the class of the NHL and the Wild's daddy.
The teams renewed acquaintances Friday night at the Xcel Energy Center. The Wild skated off with a balanced and entertaining 5-4 victory that helped them keep pace in the airtight and remarkably superior Central Division more than retaliating against a team that has banished them to the golf course three consecutive springs.