It's a big division game for the Avalanche, who are trying to right the ship and get back into contention in the Northwest. A win at first place Minnesota  would certainly be a good place to start.

Through the first 20 minutes, neither team has managed to score. Unofficially, the Wild hold an 8-6 edge in shots on net. Both teams were called for a penalty in the opening period, and the Avalanche will begin the second period with 1:34 seconds of power play time. Minnesota defenseman Clayton Stoner was sent to the box for a tripping penalty with 26 seconds remaining in the first period.

Minnesota has an 11-8 edge in the faceoff circle, while Colorado has out-hit the Wild 6-1.

For updates, stay tuned to SB Nation Denver. For more in-depth coverage, visit our Avalanche blog Mile High Hockey and our Wild blog Hockey Wilderness. For more from around the league, visit SB Nation's NHL news hub.