Minnesota Wild

Lore & Background

The Wild were founded on June 25, 1997, and began play in the 2000–01 season. The team was founded following the departure of the Minnesota North Stars, who were based in Minnesota from 1967 to 1993, when they relocated to Dallas, Texas, and became the Dallas Stars. The Wild made their first Stanley Cup playoffs appearance in 2003, making a surprise run to the Western Conference finals, but ultimately losing to the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim. The team have appeared in the playoffs a total of 14 times, and have won one division championship, in 2008.

In Their Own Story

The ice at Honda Center crackled with tension as the third period wound down, the score tied in a game that would decide the final playoff spot for the division. A Ducks forward skated deep into the Wild's zone, battling through a heavy hit near the boards before firing a wrist shot that rattled the post and bounced free. The crowd roared, a mix of anxiety and hope, as players from both teams collided in the corner, sticks raised and jerseys pulled tight. In this modern era of hockey, where every point is currency, this wasn't just a game; it was a statement of dominance between two Pacific Division rivals fighting for their legacy.

Reader's Guide

The Wild play in the Central Division of the Western Conference. Their home arena is the Grand Casino Arena. The team's history includes a 2003 playoff run that ended with a loss to the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in the Western Conference finals.

Did You Know?

• The Wild were founded on June 25, 1997, and began play in the 2000–01 season.
• The team's first playoff appearance was in 2003, when they reached the Western Conference finals.
• The Wild have won one division championship, in 2008.
• The team's home arena is the Grand Casino Arena.