The New York Islanders were counter-punchers and almost caught the Minnesota Wild on the ropes. The Wild, looking for their franchise best 12th consecutive victory, was needed a late goal by Erik Haula to take the lead for good, and pick up their Vezina-caliber goalie who faltered a bit.
The Wild gained the early lead when Marco Scandella scored his second of the season. Minnesota controlled play in the first period to the tune of 11 shots to the Islanders’ six. Savvy veteran Jason Chimera tied the game 1:31 after Scandella gave the Wild the lead. Islanders netminder Jaroslav Halak was looking sharp early as he turned a lot of great chances by the Wild away.