WATCH: Huge brawl erupts as Matt Dumba lays out Evgeny Kuznetsov

In a highly anticipated matchup between the Minnesota Wild and Washington Capitals, Matt Dumba made his presence felt with a massive hit on Evgeny Kuznetsov. The hit occurred in the first period and left Kuznetsov shaken up.

Following the hit, Dumba got involved in a scuffle with Capitals forward T.J. Oshie. The two exchanged punches before being separated by officials. The incident sparked a physical game between the two teams, with both sides delivering big hits throughout the contest.

The Wild were able to capitalize on their physical play. Matt Boldy recorded a hat-trick to lead the team to a 5-3 victory. Marcus Johansson also had a strong game, recording two assists and a plus-2 rating.

The Capitals fought back with goals from Alex Ovechkin and Dylan Strome, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Wild's physical and offensive prowess. The loss was a missed opportunity for the Capitals to climb higher in the standings. The Wild remain in second place in the Central Division.

The game was a reminder of the importance of physical play in hockey, with both teams delivering big hits throughout the contest. While some may criticize the violence of the sport, it is a key aspect of the game and adds to the excitement for fans.

In the end, it was Matt Dumba's hit that will be remembered the most from the game. His physical play and willingness to stand up for his teammates make him a valuable asset to the Wild and a fan favorite. The game was a testament to the passion and intensity of hockey, and a thrilling showcase of the sport at its best.

The Unstoppable Rise of Matt Dumba

Matt Dumba has always been known for his hard-hitting and aggressive style of play. A risk-taking defenseman with a big shot and puck-moving ability, he was selected seventh overall by the Minnesota Wild in the 2012 NHL Draft.

Dumba's professional career took off during the 2014-15 campaign, which was his first full NHL season. He compiled eight goals and eight assists in 58 games. The Canadian defenseman played a key role in helping Minnesota win its first-round playoff series against the St. Louis Blues in 2015.

He continued to excel the following season, reaching double figures in goals in four straight seasons. Dumba led all NHL defensemen with 12 goals in 32 games before suffering a season-ending injury during the 2018-19 campaign.

Despite the setbacks, Matt Dumba remained determined and worked his way back into the lineup. He returned in the 2019-20 season, scoring 24 points (six goals, 18 assists) in 69 games. He also won the King Clancy Memorial Trophy, awarded to players who best exemplify leadership qualities on and off the ice.

Matt Dumba's journey to the NHL was not without its challenges. Cut by Canada for the World Juniors in 2012 and 2013, he achieved a lifelong dream when he made the national team for the 2014 tournament.