Jordan Schroeder opened his inaugural season with the Wild in the minor leagues, a situation he expected.
But that, he said, helps make nights like Tuesday so special.
In his first season back in Minnesota, where he was once a star at St. Thomas Academy and with the Gophers, Schroeder is set to enter the lineup in Game 3 of the Wild's best-of-seven, second round playoff series with the Chicago Blackhawks.
"You've got to appreciate every day up here," the 24-year-old said. "I worked hard for this. I've got to go out there and earn it though.