Christmas break - Where the Wild are at so far

Playing in the hardest division in the NHL doesn't help. Only 6 points separates 2nd and 5th place in the Central. Only the 1st place Stars have been able to separate themselves from the pack.

It is no surprise every season to the Wild that it will be a tough task to win their division but if you are able to stay close enough to the top, there is always a chance. If a team falters for just 1 week, then many teams can take advantage.

The Wild are one of the best teams in the league defensively and have had some offensive players chip in on a more consistant basis. Wild captain Mikko Koivu has been a pleasant surprise. After having a disappointing season last year with only 48 points in 80 games, he already has 29 points in 33 games and should easily pass last years total. Thomas Vanek is a bit of the same story, he had a disappointing goal total last season, only scoring 21 goals in 80 games which was one of the lowest totals of his career. He currently has 11 goals, some of which have been of the highlight variety and has 49 games to score 11 goals and pass last years mark. Chances look good for him to do so.

Jared Spurgeon who is playing with Ryan Suter this season has also been solid and it earned him a new contract. The Wild have always been reliable defensively. Devan Dubnyk has been good and Darcy Kuemper has yet to lose in regulation.

So what is in store for 2016? The Wild still have lots of work to do and it will be a challenge. But sometimes being in such a tough division makes you rise up to the challenge and that is exactly what the Wild plan to do!