Derek Boogaard, who totaled one goal, eight assists and 466 penalty minutes in the past two seasons for the Aeros, picked up the first goal of his NHL career Wednesday night in the Minnesota Wild's 6-1 win over the San Jose Sharks at Xcel Energy Center. The 6-foot-7, 270-pound Boogaard broke a 1-1 tie early in the third period on a feed from Kyle Wanvig (2001-05), cracking open the lid on a huge five-goal third period for the Wild. Boogaard's goal with the Aeros came last Easter Sunday against Grand Rapids. He also earned a fighting major tonight.



Three former Aeros scored for the Wild tonight. In addition to Boogaard, Pierre-Marc Bouchard (2004-05) and Filip Kuba (1999-2000) both scored goals. Former Aero Manny Fernandez (1999-2000) made 35 saves for the victory.



Boogaard has two points (1-1=2) and 17 penalty minutes in five games this season for the Wild. He joins teammate Matt Foy (2003-05) and Jeff Hoggan (2002-04) as former Aeros to score their first NHL goals this season.