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Matthew Hackett News

Backstrom (groin) practiced today and looked good, Yeo said, so in the morning, the Wild will decide whether Backstrom or Hackett starts, Yeo said. It'll largely be up to Backstrom, but Yeo thinks at the very least he'll be available to back up.

Hackett could make his first NHL start tomorrow so stay tuned.

Matthew Hackett
Houston Aeros goaltender Matt Hackett has been recalled and is on a flight to the Twin Cities right now. He’s not expected to touch down on the biggest travel day of the year until about 6:30. That means the likelihood that he’s here for warmups is very small and he may even miss part of the first period.

Hackett likely won't get into a game as Harding is fully capable of starting a few games in a row.

Matthew Hackett
#mnwild G Josh Harding injured his ankle during yesterday's team-building challenges; Matt Hackett on way up. Harding being evaluated

Hackett will backup Backstrom with Harding out. Last season he won 23 of 45 games started with the Houston Aeros, totaling a respectable 2.37 GAA and .916 SV%.

Matthew Hackett
Colton Gillies picked up right where he left off in the Houston Aeros and is showing he's taking nothing for granted with his one-way deal. He was fast, assertive, physical on the forecheck and looked very good on a line with Eric Nystrom and Brad Staubitz.

The former 16th overall pick continues to work hard in training camp as he tries to earn one of the available fourth line spots. The 6'4" left wing still lacks any offensive pedigree as he registered only 11 goals with the Houston Aeros of the AHL last season.