The Stanley Cup playoffs are appointment television in Canada, and Matt Dumba's front-row seat has moved from the couch to the ice.
Minnesota's rookie defenseman grew up outside Calgary rooting for his hometown Flames, but he tuned in with family and friends in living rooms or hotels each spring no matter who was playing.
"It's the most exciting time of year," Dumba said Tuesday as the Wild prepared to open their first-round series Thursday night against the St. Louis Blues.
Dumba and goaltender Devan Dubnyk are playoff novices on whom the Wild are relying for expertise at crucial positions.