The NHL’s best team beat the Wild in a defensive battle, 1-0 Tuesday in downtown St. Paul.
After a scoreless first period the Blackhawks struck for the game’s only goal when Marian Hossa beat Niklas Backstrom with a quick slap shot after picking off an outlet pass in the Wild’s zone. The goal was unassisted.
Minnesota put together a furious rally with an empty net in the game’s final minute, but Chicago goalie Ray Emery stood tall and earned the shutout.
Backstrom was outstanding in net for the Wild. He finished with 30 saves. He’s stopped 54 of 55 shots since being pulled after allowing two goals on two shots in last week’s loss at Los Angeles.
Chicago finished with 31 shots on goal, compared to Minnesota’s 20.
19,158 fans were on hand to watch the game at the Xcel Energy Center.
