Article: the wild at midseason: michael russo's analysis; SURVIVAL MODE; A monthlong swoon sent the Wild back to basics, where it rediscovered the secret to winning hockey, thanks to coach Jacques Lemaire: hard work and teamwork.(SPORTS)

Byline: Michael Russo; Staff Writer

Just a few weeks ago, the Wild's season hit a plateau. Near the end of a monthlong nose dive like no other in Wild history (10 losses), coach Jacques Lemaire all but begged for a "team game." Lemaire has been around hockey forever, so he knew where the ugliness was heading if the Wild didn't compensate for its lack of talent (his words) with hard work and team play.

"We'll win the odd game," Lemaire warned.

Fast forward a few weeks, and the Wild is listening to its coach again. The players had an epiphany, righting the ship with a blend of work ethic, teamwork and a return to clog-it-up, defensive-minded ...

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