Kaprizov’s hat trick powers Wild past Panthers 4‑1

SUNRISE, Fla. (Interstat) — Kirill Kaprizov had three goals and an assist, Matt Boldy scored in the first minute and the Minnesota Wild beat the Florida Panthers 4-1 on Saturday at Amerant Bank Arena. Jesper Wallstedt made 29 saves for Minnesota, which improved to 3-2-0. Boldy also had an assist, while Jared Spurgeon, Quinn Hughes and Joel Eriksson Ek each added one. Matthew Tkachuk scored for Florida, which fell to 2-3-0. Anton Lundell recorded six shots on goal for the Panthers. The announced attendance was 19,856. Minnesota spoiled Florida’s home opener and completed a road victory with a strong start, as Kaprizov’s hat trick and Wallstedt’s steady play controlled the game. Kaprizov scored his final goal in the third period. The Wild have now won three of five games this season, while Florida has lost three of five. Minnesota held Florida to one goal and protected the lead through the third period.