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Staal on Target for 40 Goals

Eric Staal is now not only in striking distance of the magic four zero, but also has a shot at being the league's top goalscorer. Who would have thunked it?

Staal is now tied 4th in the NHL with 36 goals himself, trailing only Alex Ovechkin (40) of the Washington Capitals, Patrick Laine (38) of the Winnipeg Jets and Evgeni Malkin (37) of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Some pretty big names playing for some pretty big teams. What a season he is having.

"Those guys can score a lot and shoot it really well. I've got a lot of work to do if I want to catch or be around those guys. I'm just going to keep playing. I don't like my chances with those guys shooting, to be completely honest."

The humble Eric Staal that is a huge part of the Wild dressing room coming out there. That is just the sort of guy that Staal is and Boudreau has now decided to change his tune too.

"You know, last week I wanted national attention, and this week I want everybody to keep quiet. Just let Eric sneak by and keep doing what he's doing."

Of course it was said with a laugh, but Staal and from here on in, his line will definitely receive the defensive attention that a line performing like that deserves.

"I don't think anybody would've thought he'd have 36 goals at this stage of the game. I remember when we signed him we were thinking if he could give us 50 to 60 points we would think it was a great signing. And he's gone well beyond that."

Nobody did, Bruce. But long may it continue!

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