Devin Setoguchi could be ‘X’ factor in playoffs

If the Wild has any chance to compete with the Chicago Blackhawks, it must get Devin Setoguchi going. When the Wild was riding high for much of February and March, Setoguchi caught fire, scoring 12 goals and 21 points in a 24-game stretch.

The good news is Setoguchi, as streaky a goal-scorer as there is, ended a 14-game goalless drought with his winning goal in Saturday’s victory at Colorado — the game that clinched a playoff spot for Minnesota.

“It’s kind of how our team has been the whole year,” he said. “We went on rolls and then downslides. But in the playoffs, you’ve got to just work. Goals will come then. I got one now and I know what I need do to keep it going.”

Setoguchi breaking the goose egg bodes well heading into the postseason. He might be only 26, but he has appeared in 48 playoff games, scoring 14 goals and 24 points. Included in those 14 markers are three overtime winners.

“It’s just fun hockey,” Setoguchi said of the playoffs. “It’s a different animal, and I’m comfortable in it. I’ve been there almost 50 games. It’s a lot about emotions. Whoever can control their emotions and put in the work and make sure every play is the right play, that’s the team that is going to win.”

via Setoguchi could be 'X' factor in playoffs | StarTribune.com.