ST. PAUL, Minn. — The Columbus Blue Jackets will look to build on Saturday night's 1-0 overtime victory over the New York Rangers when they visit the Minnesota Wild on Sunday evening. The Jackets enter the matchup at 3-3-0, while Minnesota has opened the season with a 5-2-1 record.

Columbus snapped a two-game losing streak Saturday behind a 29-save shutout from Jet Greaves. Kent Johnson scored the game's only goal in overtime, with Zach Werenski collecting an assist to become the franchise's all-time leader in overtime points.

The win was a welcome change for a Columbus team that had surrendered 12 goals in its previous two games, including seven against Florida on Tuesday. The Blue Jackets showed they could win a defensive battle against New York, but maintaining that effort on the second night of a back-to-back will be a challenge.

Minnesota comes into Sunday's contest well-rested, having last played Thursday in a 5-4 victory over St. Louis. The Wild have won three of their last four games and are unbeaten in three home contests this season.

Special teams could play an important role in Sunday's matchup. Columbus allowed four power-play goals against Florida on Tuesday but successfully killed all three New York opportunities Saturday. Staying out of the penalty box will be especially important against a Minnesota offense featuring Kirill Kaprizov.

Columbus will also have to overcome injuries along its blue line. Dante Fabbro remains out with a broken hand, while Ivan Provorov is sidelined with a lower-body injury. The Jackets will need their remaining defensemen to continue the disciplined play they showed against the Rangers.

Cam Talbot could get the start in goal after Greaves played Saturday night. Minnesota is expected to turn to Jesper Wallstedt, who has been outstanding early this season with a 5-1-1 record, a 2.13 goals-against average, and a .921 save percentage.

What Columbus Needs to Do

The Blue Jackets need to carry Saturday's defensive performance into Minnesota without allowing the Wild to dictate the pace. Columbus has shown it can generate offense, scoring six goals against Buffalo in its opener, but the team's production has been inconsistent.

With limited rest and a road game against a strong opponent, Columbus cannot afford another slow start or unnecessary penalties. A controlled, physical game that limits Minnesota's scoring chances gives the Jackets their best opportunity to leave with two points.

Game Information

Prediction: 

Minnesota has the advantage of playing at home with two days of rest, but Columbus should benefit from the confidence gained in Saturday's shutout victory. If the Jackets can avoid costly penalties and get another solid performance in goal, they have a good chance to win their second straight game.  However, the I think the Wild are going to be too much on home ice.  I hope I'm wrong.

Columbus 2, Minnesota 4