In the first period, the Blues should have increased their advantage, but instead conceded an optional goal. Naturally, Kirill Kaprizov became its author, who managed to find a moment for a shot when he was guarded by four players in blue at once. This episode is indicative: St. Louis has a special requirement to hold back the main and most valuable player of Minnesota, which was evident in the first match. But Cyril is no longer embarrassed. Now he, along with Edmonton's David Perron and Evander Kane, is leading the current playoff scoring race. -1st/t-333293798/c-11650766?autostart=false» width=»540″ height=»360″>For the Russian striker, this goal was already the fifth in a series against the “St. Louis”. Thus, he repeated the club record held by Marian Gaborik and Wes Wals, who scored five goals in a series against the Vancouver Canucks in the 2002-03 season. In addition, in the entire history of Minnesota NHL playoff performances, Kaprizov became the fourth hockey player with five or more goals in one draw. Only the mentioned Gaborik (9) and Walls with Andrew Brynett (both — 7 each) have more. Kaprizov's success was rightfully appreciated in North America. For example, well-known insider Greg Vyshinsky recalled his note, written last spring, in which he singled out Kirill's special role in Minnesota as an indispensable and backbone player. Other media representatives also did not remain silent:
- “What Kaprizov is doing this series against the Blues reminds me of what Colorado leader Nathan McKinnon did against the St. «, — wrote Thomas Welsh.
- —»Kaprizov moved away from the gate just a couple of meters to find some free space, open up and make an accurate shot,» admired the Russian Tom Chorsky .
Fans (including other NHL clubs) also highly appreciated Kaprizov's game:
- “Kaprizov’s goal was a breath of fresh air for Minnesota. That’s how superstars behave. This guy not only affects the game of the team, but also changes its morale. I’m absolutely serious: he reminds me of Wayne Gretzky. Look at his skills , intelligence, vision, movement. He makes everything so easy!» @FouhyStan wrote on Twitter.
- “I’m kidding a little, of course, but Dean Evason (head coach) and Bill Guerin (general manager) would not have found a new job if it weren’t for Kaprizov,” the Russian @ZfaxJus originally commented on the game.
- —»Kaprizov is not a man!» @MunchoJ commented.
- —»Whims are a beast! What a player!» — wrote @GFish_2002.
- —»It seems incredible, but Kaprizov continues to improve his game and get better every time he hits the ice. The impact he has on Minnesota is huge!» added @jessi_pierce.
Speaking of Kirill's influence on the game and the spirit of the team, the fans weren't lying. From the second period, “Minnesota” looked more confident, although “St. Louis” did not slow down. Realizing that increased activity on the part of the “savages” could bring the “Blues” problems, Beryube's wards regained their lead in time and even increased it. It took the hosts a little less than a minute, which met David Perron and Kairu, who scored a double. The key to Binnington's «Wild» gate was not found until the final third of the match, when Matt Baldy literally pushed the puck into the net.