Vintage Minnesota Hockey - History

1968:  In the Minnesota North Stars vs. Chicago Blackhawks exhibition game played at the new Duluth Arena/DECC at 7:30 p.m. marked a milestone for Duluth hockey, with the first ever hockey game in Duluth that was broadcasted to another state on live TV to showcase their arena to the nations third largest market on WGN-TV 9.

1975:  The Minnesota Fighting Saints of the WHA held an intra-squad scrimmage vs. minor league affiliate Johnston, PA Jets before 1200 standing room only spectators held at Mankato, MN Ice Palace in a Saints 9-6 loss - billed as the 1st professional hockey game ever held in Mankato.  All three Carlson brothers from Virginia, MN played with Jets that night and accounted for 2 goals and 4 assists on the brother Carlson line, in addition served as enforcers.  Jack Carlson sparred off in a fight with future team-mate Mike Shakey Walton and broke his nose which many recalled 'Shakeys nose was sideways'!  Then St. Paul Mayor Larry Cohen was in attendance that night and watched in disbelief and was quoted as saying; "My God, these guys are animals, what are they feeding them"!? 

2000:  Minnesota Wild won their first game in franchise history, a 3-1 preseason victory over the Sharks in San Jose.  The win gave the Wild a 1-2-3 record in the exhibition season.

2006:  Minnesota Wild signed free agent Joel Ward.

2010:  Washington Capitals signed free agent Matt Hendricks.