SPORTS

Wild replace Wallstedt with Gustavsson after nine-goal loss

PUBLISHED May 4, 2026, 2:41 PM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Left 9%

Center 91%

Sources: 11

DENVER — The Minnesota Wild announced Filip Gustavsson will start Game 2 at Ball Arena on Tuesday after Jesper Wallstedt allowed eight goals in a 9-6 loss to the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday. The Avalanche scored nine times in Game 1, and Wallstedt surrendered a career-high eight goals on 42 shots. The coaching decision came several hours before Tuesday’s puck drop, with coach John Hynes citing confidence in both goaltenders and Gustavsson’s regular-season form. Colorado entered the series after sweeping Los Angeles and having extra preparation time; both teams said they planned defensive adjustments for the rematch on Tuesday night.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Avalanche sweep Kings in Round 1, gaining extra rest prior to Round 2.
Wild complete six-game series vs. Dallas, arriving with a shorter turnaround.
Sunday Game 1 at Ball Arena ends with Colorado defeating Minnesota 9-6.
Jesper Wallstedt records a career-high eight goals allowed on 42 shots in Game 1.
Coach John Hynes names Filip Gustavsson the starter for Game 2, announced hours before puck drop.

News Intelligence

If you're a Wild fan, this goalie switch-up is crucial. Gustavsson's regular-season form was solid, and the team needs a strong defense to bounce back. Watch Game 2 to see if the Wild's adjustments pay off.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10

Who Benefited

Filip Gustavsson benefited from being named the starter for Game 2, receiving the immediate opportunity to return to playoff action after not playing since April 13.

Who Impacted

Jesper Wallstedt suffered reputational and lineup consequences after allowing eight goals in Game 1 and being replaced in the starting role for Game 2.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 11
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 1
Neutral:: 10
Distribution:: Left 9%, Center 91%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

Filip Gustavsson benefited from being named the starter for Game 2, receiving the immediate opportunity to return to playoff action after not playing since April 13.

Who Impacted

Jesper Wallstedt suffered reputational and lineup consequences after allowing eight goals in Game 1 and being replaced in the starting role for Game 2.