Wallstead Remains Steady for Wild Despite Two Losses
By Daniel Richardson, Editor-in-Chief
April 23, 2026
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Jesper Wallstead will start Game 3 of the Western Conference First Round for the Minnesota Wild against the Dallas Stars, despite dropping the first two games of the series. Coach John Hynes confirmed the decision Tuesday, affirming confidence in the rookie goaltender after a 1-1 series tie heading into the team’s home opener.
Wallstead made his playoff debut in Game 1 at American Airlines Center in Dallas, stopping 27 of 28 shots in a 6-1 victory. The 23-year-old admitted to nervousness before the game but settled into a composed performance, earning praise for his rebound control and crease management. His strong start gave the Wild an early series lead.
But, the Stars evened the series in Game 2 with a 4-3 win. Wallstead allowed three goals on 31 shots, including an early goal that resulted from an unusual sequence involving a puck caroming off the boards and off his equipment before crossing the line. Despite the loss, Hynes emphasized that the team’s competitive level remained unchanged and that Wallstead would retain his starting role.
“Our team didn’t take a step back from a competitive standpoint,” Hynes said following the Game 2 loss. “We have home ice going into game-3 tomorrow night in St. Paul. Hynes will stick with Wallstead in goal.” The coach’s comments underscored the organization’s commitment to the young netminder as the series shifts to Xcel Energy Center.
Wallstead’s performance throughout the season has been a key factor in the Wild’s success. After the 2026 Winter Olympics break, he posted a 2.37 goals-against average and .919 save percentage in 12 games (10 starts), outperforming veteran Filip Gustavsson, who had a 2.82 GAA and .895 save percentage in 14 starts during the same stretch. This consistency earned him the starting nod for the playoff opener despite Gustavsson’s experience.
The Wild now look to regain their series lead in Game 3 at Xcel Energy Center, with tip-off scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Local time (1:00 a.m. UTC). Fans can follow the series through official NHL broadcasts and the team’s digital platforms for updates on the ongoing Western Conference First Round matchup.
What are your thoughts on Wallstead’s performance and the Wild’s chances moving forward? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation on social media using #WildHockey.
