Wild dominate Islanders 5-2 in Zuccarello’s return
The Minnesota Wild delivered their most convincing win of the season with a 5-2 victory over the New York Islanders at UBS Arena. The return of veteran forward Mats Zuccarello, who had missed the first month due to injury, gave the team a clear boost in energy and execution.
“It’s always fun to be back,” Zuccarello told FanDuel Sports North after the game. “Especially when you win, and the whole team was playing a solid game.”
Zuccarello quickly rediscovered his on-ice chemistry with Kirill Kaprizov. The duo combined for a highlight give-and-go that Kaprizov finished in the third period after receiving a between-the-legs, no-look pass from Zuccarello.
“I knew exactly where it was going,” coach John Hynes said to reporters in Elmont, New York.
Strong contributions across the lineup
- Danila Yurov scored in his return to the lineup.
- Marcus Johansson extended his career-best point streak.
- Marcus Foligno notched an assist on Yurov’s goal, securing his first point of the season.
- Goaltender Jesper Wallstedt made 25 saves, improving his record to 2-0-2.
The Wild never trailed during the game and managed to build on their lead without conceding quick responses — a welcome improvement after allowing late goals in their 4-3 loss to Carolina the night before.
Author’s summary
The Wild found their rhythm with Zuccarello back, showing renewed chemistry, discipline, and depth to power past the Islanders for a confident 5-2 victory.