The Playoffs Were Decided Today, The Blackhawks Will Play The Minnesota Wild

Apr 9, 2013; St. Paul, MN, USA; Minnesota Wild goalie Niklas Backstrom (32) makes a save on Chicago Blackhawks forward Marcus Kruger (16) during the second period at the Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

It all came down to the final minutes of the final games, but in the end the #8 seed goes to the Minnesota Wild. This will be the first playoff appearance for the Wild in five seasons, and after last night’s embarrassing 6-1 defeat to the Edmonton Oilers tonight’s victory is a lot sweeter for the Wild franchise.

A quick look at Saturday night’s games.

Detroit Red Wings-3 Dallas Stars-0 The Red Wings late surge clinched their 22nd straight playoff appearance and they get to avoid the Blackhawks as the #7 seed. They will start on the road this week in Anaheim.

Columbus Blue Jackets-3 Nashville Predators-1 The Blue Jackets needed a win and either Detroit or Minnesota to lose.  The Blue Jackets did their part by scoring 3 goals in the third period to overcome a one goal deficit entering the final period.  A very good stepping stone season for the Blue Jackets who needed an 82 game season this year to make the playoffs.  The Eastern Conference gets to deal with the cannon from now on.

Minnesota Wild-2 Colorado Avalanche-1 The turning point of the contest was when an apparent Avalanche goal was disallowed for a kick which would have given the Av’s a 2-1 lead.  Minnesota took advantage of the break a secured the victory while punching their ticket for the post-season.

What is your reaction to facing the Wild in the first round?

We will have plenty more coverage of this series in the coming days, I can’t wait for the playoffs to begin!! Follow us on Twitter @Blackhawk_Up or Friend us on Facebook at Blackhawk Up!

ONE GOAL!!!