Wild and Avalanche Battle to 2-2 Tie: Kaprizov, Sturm, and Roy Score

Kaprizov sets franchise goal-scoring record as Wild and Avalanche play to a draw

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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In a closely contested matchup, the Minnesota Wild and Colorado Avalanche battled to a 2-2 tie, with Kirill Kaprizov, Marco Sturm, and Ryan Roy each finding the back of the net. Kaprizov's power-play goal broke the Wild's all-time franchise goal-scoring record, while Sturm's short-handed tally and Roy's mid-season acquisition goal highlighted the diverse contributions to the offensive effort.

Why it matters

The game showcased the increasing importance of skilled, creative forwards in the modern NHL, with Kaprizov and Matt Boldy's dynamic duo leading the way for the Wild. The contributions of German-born players like Sturm also underscored the growing internationalization of the league's talent pool.

The details

Kirill Kaprizov opened the scoring with a power-play goal, breaking the Minnesota Wild's all-time franchise goal-scoring record with his 220th career tally. Marco Sturm then netted a short-handed goal, demonstrating the value of defensive awareness leading to offensive opportunities. Newcomer Ryan Roy, acquired in a mid-season trade from the Toronto Maple Leafs, quickly made an impact by scoring a deflection goal shortly after joining the Wild.

  • Kaprizov scored the opening goal on the power play.
  • Sturm scored a short-handed goal in the second period.
  • Roy scored a deflection goal shortly after being traded to the Wild.

The players

Kirill Kaprizov

The dynamic forward for the Minnesota Wild, who broke the franchise's all-time goal-scoring record with his 220th career goal.

Matt Boldy

Kaprizov's linemate and a rising star for the Wild, known for his finishing ability and complementary skills.

Marco Sturm

A German-born forward for the Wild, who scored a short-handed goal, showcasing his defensive awareness and opportunistic play.

Ryan Roy

A mid-season acquisition by the Wild, who quickly made an impact by scoring a deflection goal shortly after joining the team.

Nathan MacKinnon

The dominant center for the Colorado Avalanche, who continued his success against the Wild by reaching 70 points in 55 games.

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What they’re saying

“Kirill Kaprizov is the future of the NHL. His ability to create scoring chances and his chemistry with Matt Boldy is a blueprint for offensive success.”

— Gordon Edgar, Hockey Analyst (Sports Illustrated)

“Short-handed goals are game-changers. Marco Sturm's ability to capitalize on turnovers and generate offense while shorthanded is a valuable asset for the Wild.”

— Jarome Iginla, Hockey Hall of Famer (ESPN)

What’s next

The Wild and Avalanche will meet again on March 15th, with both teams looking to gain an edge in the competitive Central Division standings.

The takeaway

The Wild's offensive firepower, led by Kaprizov and Boldy, combined with the contributions of players like Sturm and Roy, highlight the evolving landscape of the NHL. As the league continues to prioritize skilled, creative forwards, the Wild's dynamic duo and their supporting cast exemplify the modern blueprint for offensive success.