It was a night to remember for Minnesota Wild rookie defenseman Brock Faber as he scored his first NHL goal in a 2-0 win over the Florida Panthers. The goal was made possible by a stellar performance from Wild goaltender Filip Gustavsson, who stopped all 41 shots he faced for the shutout victory.
Faber, a 20-year-old native of Apple Valley, Minnesota, was selected in the second round of the 2020 NHL Draft by the Wild. He made his NHL debut on April 13th and has since appeared in five games for the Wild. On April 24th, Faber finally got his first NHL goal, thanks to a great pass from linemate Nico Sturm and a great save from Gustavsson.
Gustavsson, 23, was acquired by the Wild in a trade with the Ottawa Senators in October 2020. He has been a reliable presence in net for the Wild this season, appearing in 15 games and posting a 2.59 goals against average and .912 save percentage. His 41-save performance against the Panthers was his third shutout of the season and his best performance yet.
Faber’s goal was the only one of the game, but it was enough to give the Wild the win. It was a special moment for Faber, who was able to celebrate his first NHL goal with his teammates and family in attendance. It was also a special moment for Gustavsson, who was able to help Faber achieve his dream of scoring his first NHL goal.
The Wild’s win over the Panthers was an impressive team effort, but it was Gustavsson’s 41 saves that made it possible. His performance was a reminder of why he was acquired by the Wild and why he has been such an important part of their success this season. Without his stellar play, Faber’s first NHL goal may have never happened.
