## Wild Desperately Depend On Rookies For Success
The Minnesota Wild are in a precarious position. After making the playoffs in each of the past seven seasons, they are now in danger of missing out this year. One of the main reasons for their struggles has been their poor play from their rookies.
Lack of Production
The Wild's rookies have simply not produced enough this season. They have combined for just 12 goals and 24 assists in 66 games. That's an average of just 0.18 goals and 0.36 assists per game.
This lack of production has been a major factor in the Wild's struggles. They have been outscored by their opponents by a margin of 20 goals this season. That's the second-worst goal differential in the NHL.
Poor Play In Key Situations
The Wild's rookies have also struggled in key situations. They have been particularly bad on the power play, converting just 12.5% of their opportunities. That's the second-worst power-play percentage in the NHL.
The Wild have also been bad at killing penalties. They have allowed 17 power-play goals against this season, which is the fourth-most in the NHL.
Need to Step Up
The Wild's rookies need to step up if the team is going to have any chance of making the playoffs. They need to start producing more offensively and playing better in key situations.
If they can't do that, the Wild are likely to miss the playoffs for the first time in eight years.