The Dallas Stars emerged victorious in Game 3 of their Western Conference Semifinals series against the Winnipeg Jets, securing a 5-2 win on home ice. The game, played on Sunday, saw a tightly contested affair break open in the third period, as the Stars capitalized on a series of quick goals to take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series.
The turning point arrived in the third period when Alexander Petrovic scored a controversial goal at 3:51. The play involved Petrovic appearing to kick the puck towards the net. It then deflected off Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck’s stick and into the net. The goal was immediately challenged and reviewed extensively. Replays showed a subtle kicking motion by Petrovic, but the officials ultimately ruled that the puck was not deliberately directed into the net with his foot. This controversial call gave the Stars a 3-2 lead, shifting momentum in their favor.
Just 49 seconds later, Mikko Rantanen extended the Stars’ lead to 4-2. Rantanen, who has been on a remarkable scoring streak throughout the playoffs, skated across the slot and unleashed a powerful shot that beat Hellebuyck. This goal further demoralized the Jets and solidified the Stars’ control of the game. Rantanen’s goal was his seventh in the last four games and his ninth overall in the playoffs, highlighting his exceptional performance during the postseason.
Wyatt Johnston added an insurance goal later in the third period, capitalizing on a rebound opportunity to make the score 5-2. This goal effectively sealed the victory for the Stars, giving them a comfortable three-goal lead with time running out.
Goaltender Jake Oettinger played a solid game for the Stars, making 23 saves to secure the win. While he wasn’t heavily tested, Oettinger made key stops at crucial moments to keep the Jets at bay.
The Jets, despite forging a 2-2 tie through 40 minutes, struggled to contain the Stars’ offensive firepower in the third period. Kyle Connor and Nino Niederreiter scored for Winnipeg, but their efforts were ultimately not enough to overcome the Stars’ late surge. Goalie Connor Hellebuyck, known for his stellar play, had a disappointing outing, allowing five goals on 26 shots. The Jets also continued their struggles on the road in the playoffs, failing to secure a win away from home.
The game started with Roope Hintz opening the scoring for the Stars on a power play at the 2:27 mark of the first period. Hintz redirected a shot from the point while stationed in front of the net, giving the Stars an early lead.
Kyle Connor responded for the Jets at 9:53 of the first period, tying the game with a wraparound goal. Connor skillfully tucked the puck inside the post, beating Oettinger and leveling the score.
Thomas Harley then put the Stars back in front at 15:12 of the first period with a well-placed shot from the slot. Harley capitalized on a scoring opportunity, finding the back of the net and restoring the Stars’ lead.
Nino Niederreiter tied the game again for the Jets at 10:07 of the second period, scoring on a sharp-angled shot from the bottom of the right circle. His shot eluded Oettinger, knotting the score at 2-2 heading into the third period.
Rantanen’s overall performance in the game was outstanding, as he contributed one goal and two assists. His offensive prowess has been a key factor in the Stars’ success throughout the playoffs. Roope Hintz and Thomas Harley also had strong performances, each collecting one goal and one assist.
With the win, the Stars now hold a 2-1 lead in the series. Teams that take a 2-1 lead in a best-of-seven series have historically had a strong chance of advancing, boasting an all-time record of 391-177 (.688) in the Stanley Cup playoffs. The Stars will look to continue this trend as they aim to secure a series victory.
Game 4 is scheduled for Tuesday in Dallas, where the Stars will have another opportunity to extend their series lead on home ice. The Jets will need to regroup and find a way to win on the road to avoid falling further behind in the series. They must improve their defensive play and find ways to generate more offense against Oettinger and the Stars’ defense.
The series has been highly competitive, with both teams showcasing their strengths. The Stars’ ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and their solid goaltending have been key to their success. The Jets, on the other hand, need to find more consistency in their game and improve their road performance if they hope to advance to the next round. The controversial goal in Game 3 will undoubtedly be a talking point, but both teams must focus on the games ahead and strive to execute their game plans effectively.
