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It wasn't supposed to end this way. Going into the Stanley Cup Playoffs, many people didn't give the Minnesota Wild a chance to win it all. The Wild finished with 98 points on the season, clinching the first wild-card spot in the Western Conference and a date with the Central Division champion Colorado Avalanche.
Throughout an up-and-down season, the Minnesota Wild lagged behind the leaders of the Central Division. With an extended test against two of the top teams in the playoffs, though, the Wild clearly passed.
It's been a stomach-churning couple weeks for the Minnesota Wild and their fans. The team was decided underdogs against the Colorado Avalanche, and much more so against the Chicago Blackhawks.
Higher-seeded teams with the lead in a best-of-seven series over the history of the NHL playoffs have had plenty of trouble putting the opponent away. Sometimes the brink of elimination has been what truly gets a team going. Consider the Chicago Blackhawks, though, when their foe is down. An ability to swoop down and delivering the finishing victory has become a clear trait of this team since coach Joel Quenneville took over and stars Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews arrived.
Former NHL head coach Barry Melrose has a saying that gets mentioned frequently each spring during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. "This time of year your best players have to be your best players," Melrose said. That was the case in Chicago for Game 5 as the Blackhawks rallied from a 1-0 deficit, defeating Minnesota 2-1. Chicago now leads the series 3 games to 2.
Jonathan Toews had a rebound goal early in the third period, and the Chicago Blackhawks beat the Minnesota Wild 2-1 on Sunday night to take a 3-2 series lead in the Western Conference semifinals. Bryan Bickell also scored and Corey Crawford made 27 saves as Chicago bounced back from consecutive losses in Minnesota that handed the momentum to the Wild heading into Game 5.
Two hours before Game 7 in Colorado, Nino Niederreiter sat alone in the stands. Just a man, his thoughts and his hockey sticks. It's a routine he started a few years ago and does before every game; sitting in the seats, taping his sticks and getting focused.
The Wild left St. Paul, Minn. on Saturday with a very different feeling than when they arrived earlier in the week. "Obviously our guys are feeling pretty good right now," coach Mike Yeo said.
in Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Keith Ballard helped the Minnesota Wild limit the Chicago Blackhawks, which is a big part of the game plan. "I think with their personal … there's more shots that become dangerous. They don't always have to be odd-man rushes or back-door plays or stuff like that – they've got a lot of skill in their lineup," Ballard said.
On Tuesday night's Game 3 of the Wild-versus-Blackhawks series, the Wild reported attendance was a record 19,416. So, Ruth and Greg asked: How does the Wild determine game attendance? "We get a report at the end of the night that tells us how many tickets were sold and that's the number, like every other sports team, we put out," said Wild spokesman Ryan Stanzel.
The Minnesota Wild are bracing for more aggression from the Chicago Blackhawks. Minnesota won a slower Game 3 to cut Chicago's lead in the series to 2-1. Game 4 is Friday, and the Blackhawks will be fired up to get their attack back on track.
The Minnesota Wild have done a good job of putting the brakes on Chicago's high-flying offense through the first three games of the Western Conference semifinals. The Wild trail 2-1 in the series, but they have not allowed the Blackhawks to get more than 22 shots on net in a game yet. Now they get tough guy Matt Cooke back to help keep the defensive pressure going.
The Minnesota Wild are at a point where they are counting on the home ice carrying them. "That's the plan. We know in the first round we played pretty well here and we're excited to play here. But, you know, that doesn't guarantee much," said forward Zach Parise.
The Minnesota Wild have returned defenseman Keith Ballard to the lineup for Game 3 of their Western Conference semifinal against Chicago. Coach Mike Yeo confirmed the change after the pre-game skate Tuesday. Ballard replaced Nate Prosser on the third blue line pair.
The Minnesota Wild is in familiar territory Tuesday night as it hosts the Chicago Blackhawks at Xcel Energy Center in Game 3 of the Western Conference semifinals. The Wild trail Chicago 2-0 in the best-of-seven playoff series, but the good news for Wild fans as the team returns home is that they are 3-0 on home ice in the postseason so far.
The Minnesota Wild came back to the comfort of home, already trailing Chicago by two games in the Western Conference semifinals. They were in this position just two weeks ago, so there's obvious precedent for a rebound. But over that same time span, the Blackhawks are unbeaten.
Bryan Bickell had an open look on a break in the third period, and shot the puck off the crossbar. He then tried the other side of the ice, and that worked out quite well for him and the Chicago Blackhawks. Bickell had a goal and two assists, and the Blackhawks beat the Minnesota Wild 4-1 on Sunday to take a 2-0 lead in the Western Conference semifinals.
Center Andrew Shaw will miss Game 2 of the Chicago Blackhawks' playoff series against the Minnesota Wild due to a lower-body injury.
The Minnesota Wild are looking to bounce-back after Friday night's loss and win one on the road. They skated their way into the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs and are now facing the defending champion Chicago Blackhawks. Game 2 is Sunday night in Chicago.
Chicago Blackhawks center Andrew Shaw is questionable for Game 2 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Wild on Sunday because of a lower body injury. Coach Joel Quenneville said Saturday he doesn't expect Shaw to be out for an extended period.
After a thrilling overtime win Wednesday night against the Colorado Avalanche, hockey fans have been rushing to get their hands on anything with a Wild logo on it. "This city is pumped. I mean this state's pumped. We are ready to go," said Corey Reding, one of many fans with an arm-full of merchandise Friday at The Hockey Lodge inside the Xcel Center.
As the NHL playoffs heat up for the Minnesota Wild, so too are the stakes rising between the Twin Cities and Chicago. On Friday, St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman challenged Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel to a friendly bet on the second round series between the Wild and the Chicago Blackhawks.
One Minnesota Wild fan has been getting a lot of buzz on social media for her passionate support of the team during game six. Cameras caught the so-called "Lady in Pink" banging on the glass and using some choice words after she saw Charlie Coyle get punched in the face.
Patrick Sharp thought the Chicago Blackhawks were going to play the Colorado Avalanche. Then he thought they were going to play the Minnesota Wild. Then he thought they were going to play the Avs again, and on and on it went. While the Wild and Avalanche played an epic Game 7 on Wednesday night, the Blackhawks were hanging on every goal.
In Game 6 of the series versus Colorado, the best players for the Minnesota Wild proved to be just that. Zach Parise had a four-point night (2G, 2A) including the game-winning goal. Mikko Koivu and Ryan Suter added two assists as Minnesota defeated Colorado 5-2 to even the series at 3-3, forcing Game 7 in Denver.
The Minnesota Wild have clinched a spot in the NHL playoffs, giving them another chance to advance in the postseason for the first time since 2015.
Matt Boldy scored his 39th and 40th goals, Kirill Kaprizov added his 40th and the Minnesota Wild wrapped up a playoff spot with a 5-2 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night.
A new federal lawsuit was filed Thursday against the Department of Homeland Security on behalf of immigrants and U.S. citizens who have been impacted by DHS's warrantless home entry policy.
The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District released its latest forecast for the mosquito season, predicting a slow start before a spike in early July.
Jalen Duren had 22 points and 14 rebounds, Daniss Jenkins scored 26 and the Detroit Pistons beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 113-108 on Thursday night as both teams were without a superstar.
The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District released its latest forecast for the mosquito season, predicting a slow start before a spike in early July.
Preparations were underway Thursday at Target Field as the Minnesota Twins got ready for their home opener.
The group participated in a foot-washing ritual before three clergy leaders made their way inside to administer pastoral care to those who wanted it.
Ruby's Pantry provided food through what's called a "blessing box." At 37 locations Minnesota, Iowa and Wisconsin, the organization served nearly 200,000 people every year.
The complaint says the woman admitted to an officer over the phone that she went home and consumed alcohol during her lunch break.
Julie Le, who was removed from her post after telling a judge "this job sucks," is now challenging Rep. Ilhan Omar in Minnesota's 5th District.
Shattuck-St. Mary's is more than a hockey school, but hockey has helped put the school on the map. They have banners and big names to prove it, though the real evidence lies with a man called Rooster.
Some schools in Minnesota have already announced closings or shifts to virtual learning on Thursday as another round of winter weather threatens parts of the state.
A South Dakota man was killed in a crash south of the Twin Cities Tuesday morning, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.
The Moorhead Police Department says Colton Long Jr. was last seen on Feb. 23 wearing a black coat, blue sweatshirt and dark blue jeans.
Some schools in Minnesota have already announced closings or shifts to virtual learning on Thursday as another round of winter weather threatens parts of the state.
A suspect is in custody after a "written threat" led to the brief evacuation of a church in Hudson, Wisconsin, Tuesday morning.
Chesney the kangaroo jumped an eight-foot fence to escape his petting zoo in Wisconsin, spending three days on the lam.
Wisconsin lawmakers are taking a shot at expanding sports betting in the state.
A Wisconsin legislator has pleaded no contest to a misdemeanor count of disorderly conduct in connection with a bitter feud with her caucus over resolutions honoring Hispanics.
Mackenzie Reed, head custodian at Shakopee East Middle School, has painted large-scale murals throughout the building she once attended as a student, creating a more welcoming space for current students.
Kristi comes to the Salvation Army not only to get food, but to shine her light. She talks with and encourages people waiting in line.
The way Mary Hernandez describes it, the effort to keep families off the street in Shakopee, Minnesota, is like trying to keep your head above water.
Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson, 61, died March 5 after a two-year battle with job-related cancer, the Minnetonka Fire Department announced.
The Minnesota Department of Corrections says 95% of all incarcerated individuals will eventually be released from prison. The DOC says it does all it can to help people transition back into the community as productive citizens.
A new federal lawsuit was filed Thursday against the Department of Homeland Security on behalf of immigrants and U.S. citizens who have been impacted by DHS's warrantless home entry policy.
We're learning the ICE tactics that prompted a whistleblower complaint are now leading to a legal fight involving Minnesota families. The ACLU says it's suing to stop dramatic ICE raids. Ubah Ali has more on the lawsuit and why attorneys believe these methods are still being used.
Eric Taubel, executive director of the Office of Cannabis Management, said he expects monthly sales to double in the coming months and years.
Julie Le, who was removed from her post after telling a judge "this job sucks," is now challenging Rep. Ilhan Omar in Minnesota's 5th District.
In 2025, the entire U.S. Attorney's office had 77 immigration detention cases, she said. In January 2026, she alone was assigned 88 cases.
Minnesota continues to beat the national gas price average, but there are still ways to save in the metro area.
A passenger on an American Airlines flight from New York to Chicago has been charged with making a false bomb threat that forced an emergency landing at Detroit Metro Airport last month, according to a federal criminal complaint.
Your car isn't the only vehicle that needs gas. It's a huge budget item for Minnesota fire departments, police and mass transit.
As we all pay more to fuel our cars, drivers might miss the savings hidden right at the pump. It comes down to timing, then adjusting your routine.
With the national average for gas prices around $4, the timing is especially concerning for the floral industry amid the height of Easter and Passover preparations.
The complaint says the woman admitted to an officer over the phone that she went home and consumed alcohol during her lunch break.
A man who claimed to run a food distribution business in Minneapolis that served meals to hungry children pleaded guilty to wire fraud on Thursday.
Police in a northwestern Minneapolis suburb say dozens of "unsupervised juveniles" gathered at one of the city's parks on three straight days, becoming so "disorderly and dangerous" that multiple agencies responded and the park was temporarily closed.
Two teenagers are recovering from gunshot wounds and a man is in custody after a car was stolen in north Minneapolis early Thursday.
A man is dead after a shooting in north Minneapolis early Thursday, according to police.
Nurses and physicians at Hennepin Healthcare in downtown Minneapolis, home to the first level-one and busiest trauma center in Minnesota, on Wednesday urged the state Legislature to throw the hospital a lifeline — and fast.
Ramsey County, Minnesota, health officials say the county had its first case of mumps reported in about five years.
The Supreme Court's 8-1 ruling siding with a Colorado counselor who claimed the state's restriction unconstitutionally censored her conversations with young patients does not immediately strike down Minnesota's law.
The produce section at grocery stores is packed with nutrient-dense foods. Certain fruits and vegetables, in particular, are packed with fiber, and a new diet trend has people "maxxing" out on it.
Deputy Fire Marshal Shawn Johnson, 61, died March 5 after a two-year battle with job-related cancer, the Minnetonka Fire Department announced.
A federal judge in New York has tossed out actor Blake Lively's sexual harassment claims against actor Justin Baldoni over their roles in the movie "It Ends With Us," but left intact a claim for retaliation.
Atlanta rapper Gucci Mane was lured to a Dallas studio for a meeting, then allegedly kidnapped and robbed by a group including rappers Pooh Shiesty and Big30.
A Las Vegas performer has sued Taylor Swift over the title of her hit album "The Life of a Showgirl," alleging it violates the performer's trademark.
A Minnesota singer has made the big time, signing his first record deal after 43 years in the music business.
The price hike raises the cost of the standard plan with ads by $1 per month and the cost of the standard and premium plans by $2.
The Minnesota Wild have clinched a spot in the NHL playoffs, giving them another chance to advance in the postseason for the first time since 2015.
Matt Boldy scored his 39th and 40th goals, Kirill Kaprizov added his 40th and the Minnesota Wild wrapped up a playoff spot with a 5-2 victory over the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday night.
Jalen Duren had 22 points and 14 rebounds, Daniss Jenkins scored 26 and the Detroit Pistons beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 113-108 on Thursday night as both teams were without a superstar.
Taj Bradley pitched six innings of five-hit ball while Matt Wallner, Kody Clemens and Josh Bell each hit solo shots in the ninth, helping the Twins to a 5-1 victory over the Royals.
Anthony Edwards is ineligible for NBA postseason awards because he can't reach the 65-game minimum after the Minnesota Timberwolves ruled out him out against the Detroit Pistons.
Julie Le, who was removed from her post after telling a judge "this job sucks," is now challenging Rep. Ilhan Omar in Minnesota's 5th District.
In 2025, the entire U.S. Attorney's office had 77 immigration detention cases, she said. In January 2026, she alone was assigned 88 cases.
One of the most heated issues remains immigration, where Craig has walked back her support for the Laken Riley Act.
With the DFL nominating convention just eight weeks away, polls that have come out show Peggy Flanagan in the lead for U.S. Senate over Angie Craig.
A DFL senator argues that President Donald Trump's decision to allow prediction market sites in all 50 states means Minnesota should regulate sports betting rather than leave it uncontrolled.
Shattuck-St. Mary's is more than a hockey school, but hockey has helped put the school on the map. They have banners and big names to prove it, though the real evidence lies with a man called Rooster.
Opening Day for the Minnesota Twins is almost here. And across town, the St. Paul Saints are getting ready for their season, too, with some added history.
The Nuss Collection is home to a lot of vintage trucks.
Denis Doyle was born in Kilkenny, Ireland. He emigrated to the U.S. and in 1856, Doyle traveled to Le Sueur County. Other Irish immigrants joined Doyle and the town was born.
One of the oldest operating theaters in the Midwest is in danger of closing its doors for good.
It's estimated that children playing with fire set more than 20,000 fires every year. On average, the fires they start cause nearly 1,000 injuries and 150 deaths each year.
As we all pay more to fuel our cars, drivers might miss the savings hidden right at the pump. It comes down to timing, then adjusting your routine.
The produce section at grocery stores is packed with nutrient-dense foods. Certain fruits and vegetables, in particular, are packed with fiber, and a new diet trend has people "maxxing" out on it.
Minnesota's recent swing from heavy snow to record heat is a recipe for rocky roads.
Heavy snow followed by bitter cold hit Minnesotans with a double whammy of winter. The good news is spring-like weather is right around the corner, but its quick arrival could spell trouble for homeowners.
A look back at the esteemed personalities who've left us this year, who'd touched us with their innovation, creativity and humanity.
Minnesotans got a great view of the northern lights Tuesday night.
A look at the newest addition to the polar bear population at St. Paul, Minnesota's Como Zoo.
From food shelves to school programs, our team is proud to serve where it matters most.
The Minnesota State Fair has unveiled its new food, drinks and vendors for 2025.
WCCO meteorologist Chris Shaffer says tomorrow will start off dry and cloudy before rain showers pop up in the afternoon.
In Minnesota, weather can be all over the place. Here at WCCO, we want to give you what you need to prepare for what's happening next.
WCCO meteorologist Chris Shaffer says precipitation will clear out for a mostly cloudy and dry morning commute Friday.
The Twin Cities will see a slight break in the rain before another system moves through on Friday.
We could see some flakes in the mix on a cold and windy Saturday. It will be all snow up north with several inches possible, WCCO meteorologist Mike Augustyniak reports.
WCCO meteorologist Chris Shaffer says tomorrow will start off dry and cloudy before rain showers pop up in the afternoon.
The Metropolitan Mosquito Control District released its latest forecast for the mosquito season. Ashley Grams shares their predictions
We're learning the ICE tactics that prompted a whistleblower complaint are now leading to a legal fight involving Minnesota families. The ACLU says it's suing to stop dramatic ICE raids. Ubah Ali has more on the lawsuit and why attorneys believe these methods are still being used.
WCCO meteorologist Chris Shaffer says precipitation will clear out for a mostly cloudy and dry morning commute Friday.
With dreary weather, it hardly feels like baseball season, but we're less than 24 hours from the Twins home opener. Photojournalist Joe van Ryn and Ubah Ali take us to Target Field.