Minnesota Wild vs Toronto Maple Leafs Prediction | NHL 19.01.26

Minnesota Wild vs Toronto Maple Leafs Game Analysis | 19-01-2026 | NHL

This regular-season matchup on January 19, 2026, at 7:30 PM in Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, pits the Minnesota Wild (27-13-9) against the Toronto Maple Leafs (24-16-8). This contest presents a fascinating clash of styles and current team dynamics, with both clubs navigating significant injury challenges.

Minnesota Wild Team Performance

The Minnesota Wild enter this game with a superior record, indicative of a strong season thus far. Their success has largely been driven by a potent offense, but their defensive depth will be tested given recent absences. The Wild have shown resilience, adapting their game plan effectively, yet the cumulative impact of key players missing will undoubtedly strain their ability to maintain consistency, particularly in tight-checking games.

Minnesota Wild Key Players

• Points: Kirill Kaprizov (55)
• Goals: Kirill Kaprizov (25)
• Assists: Kirill Kaprizov (30)

Injury Report Minnesota Wild

• Marcus Johansson (Out): Johansson (lower body) will not travel with the team on their upcoming three-game road trip, Michael Russo of The Athletic reports Saturday.
• Joel Eriksson Ek (Injured reserve): Eriksson Ek (lower body) was placed on injured reserve Friday, according to Michael Russo of The Athletic.
• Jonas Brodin (Injured reserve): Brodin (lower body) was placed on injured reserve Thursday.
• Zach Bogosian (Injured reserve): Head coach John Hynes said Thursday that he anticipates that Bogosian (undisclosed) will be able to return at some point during the Wild’s upcoming three-game road trip, Michael Russo of The Athletic reports.

Toronto Maple Leafs Team Performance

The Toronto Maple Leafs, despite a respectable record, have faced inconsistencies, particularly in their defensive zone coverage. Their offensive firepower remains a constant threat, but the recent spate of injuries, especially on the backend and to a star forward, could expose their vulnerabilities further. The Leafs will need a cohesive team effort and strong goaltending to overcome these personnel setbacks against a formidable opponent.

Toronto Maple Leafs Key Players

• Points: John Tavares (42)
• Goals: Auston Matthews (24)
• Assists: Matthew Knies (28)

Injury Report Toronto Maple Leafs

• William Nylander (Out): Nylander (lower body) isn’t expected to play against Minnesota on Monday, according to Joshua Kloke of The Athletic.
• Dakota Mermis (Injured reserve): Mermis (lower body) was assigned to AHL Toronto on Monday for a conditioning assignment.
• Anthony Stolarz (Injured reserve): Stolarz (upper body) was facing shots prior to practice Saturday, David Alter of The Hockey News reports.
• Chris Tanev (Injured reserve): Tanev (groin) is expected to miss a significant amount of time, according to Jonas Siegel of The Athletic on Wednesday.
• Dakota Joshua (Injured reserve): Joshua (upper body) is expected to miss a significant amount of time, Anna Dua of Sportsnet reports Wednesday.

Prediction: Minnesota Wild vs Toronto Maple Leafs

Considering the current form and the significant injury woes impacting the Maple Leafs’ defense and key offensive contributor William Nylander, the Minnesota Wild are poised to capitalize. Kirill Kaprizov’s exceptional scoring ability, combined with Toronto’s defensive absences, suggests a high-scoring affair. The Wild’s stronger overall record and deeper roster, even with their own injuries, gives them an edge.

Predicted Winner: Minnesota Wild
Total Goals Prediction: Over 6.5