Kassian Takes Down Hordichuk Twice in Wild Win

Matt Kassian knows why he was called up from Houston. The Wild, once on top of the NHL were on an 8-game losing streak going into last night's game with Edmonton. If he's in the lineup, he's there to provide a physical presence.

Kassian challenged Darcy Hordichuk as soon as he could. The challenge wasn't accepted until the second period, but when it was, the much larger Kassian was able to easily handle Hordichuk.

Both players started the third period. With the Oilers down 4-2, they had a chat and squared off again. The result was the same and Kassian was once again skating to the penalty box trying to pump up the home crowd. Michael Russo is reporting Hordichuk didn't wear his elbow pads to start the period, knowing this time he would be the one issuing the challenge.

The Wild snapped their losing streak, winning the game 4-3. Points be damned, Kassian was voted first star of the game. Minnesota defenseman Nate Prosser, also pointless, was named second star. Jarod Palmer, scoring his first NHL goal, was the third star.