Backstrom Leads Wild Defense, Halts Penguins' Win Streak

Pittsburgh, PA (AHN) - The Minnesota Wild compensated for their low scoring output by clamping the defensive shackles on the streaking Pittsburgh Penguins to notch a 2-1 win in a shootout Tuesday night.

Goalie Niklas Backstrom registered 24 saves in the win.

Minnesota ended the Penguins' six-game winning streak.

The Wild crew, who compiled only 15 goals in their last eight games, stepped up on their defense.

Backstrom, who stopped three attempts in the shootout, including a stab from Sidney Crosby, led the way.

After Petr Sykora's backhand was gloved down by Backstrom to start the shootout round; Marek Zidlicky pounded home a forehand blast around goalie Dany Sabourin, giving Minnesota a one-goal advantage.

Backstrom then halted a forehand shot from Crosby sealing the win for Minnesota.

Mikko Koivu scored in regulation for the Wild, who won their third straight and fourth in their last five contests.

Pittsburgh failed to convert on its four power play attempts against the Wild, the NHL-leading penalty stopping unit, but Minnesota went 0-for-2 on the man-advantage.

Matt Cooke accounted for the Pen's only goal, and Sabourin, who replaced injured Marc-Andre Fleury, had 24 saves in defeat.

The win improved Minnesota's road record to 6-3-0 this year. They are slated to begin a five-game homestand against Vancouver Thursday.