It wasn’t too long ago that Kaprizov was viewed as a frontrunner for the Hart Trophy after scoring 50 points (23 goals, 27 assists) through the opening 34 games. His outstanding play in the early stages of this season had the Wild looking very much like a legitimate Stanley Cup contender.

Kirill Kaprizov was oozing praise for his linemate Joel Eriksson Ek, commending the Wild’s top center for handling faceoffs, playing at the front of the net and winning puck battles, before he put a lid on the compliments.

Minnesota could have split up Kaprizov and Boldy for scoring-depth purposes, but they've been fantastic together.