The Minnesota Wild enter their first-round playoff series against the Dallas Stars with coach John Hynes refusing to name a starting goalie for Saturday's Game 1. Both Filip Gustavsson and rookie Jesper Wallstedt have proven capable throughout the season, leaving Hynes comfortable with either choice.

Gustavsson brings playoff experience with 49 career starts and a memorable postseason debut three years ago, though his recent form has been shaky with multiple four-plus goal outings in his last six starts. Wallstedt, the 2021 first-round pick, has been spectacular in his rookie season, posting a .916 save percentage and setting franchise records with 18 wins and four shutouts. The coaching staff's indecision reflects confidence in both netminders rather than uncertainty.

The Wild face additional questions about their lineup, with standout defenseman Quinn Hughes sidelined by illness but expected to travel to Dallas. Hynes also plans to split the team's dynamic duo of 40-goal scorers, Kirill Kaprizov and Matt Boldy, between the first two lines for better balance. The coach declined to confirm whether the team will use both goalies during the best-of-seven series, suggesting a day-by-day approach as they prepare for the postseason opener.