Thomas Vanek sent a screamer past Semyon Varlamov to tie the game 4-4 in Minnesota's Opening Night win.

Vanek sent a screamer past Semyon Varlamov to tie the game 4-4 in Thursday's Opening Night win over Colorado.

Analysis:

Center Mikael Granlund fed the trailing Vanek, who picked the top left corner of the net for his first goal of the season. It was a pretty play on a huge goal for the Wild, as Zach Parise would eventually score the game-winner at 10:14 of the third period. Vanek also had four shots and played 14:39 in a supporting role on the third line. His numbers may not reach their old elite levels, but Vanek clearly still possesses a mean scoring touch.