STAR TRIBUNE'S THREE STARS
1. Niklas Hjalmarsson, Blackhawks: Defenseman got extra ice time after injury to Michal Rozsival, ended up crucial assist, +2 with three blocked shots.
2. Patrick Kane, Blackhawks: Goal and assist, continued his dominance against the Wild in playoff series.
3. Matt Dumba, Wild: Set up two goals, led the team in shots (5) and assists (3).
BY THE NUMBERS
5 Appearances in the Western Conference finals in the past seven seasons by the Blackhawks.
2 Goals in the final 10 periods of the series by Wild forwards.
177:12 Minutes and seconds in the series between goals for the Wild forwards, before Erik Haula's second period goal.
CHRIS MILLER