The Dallas Stars had an opportunity to clinch their playoff series against the Winnipeg Jets in Game 5 on Thursday, but instead, the Jets shut them out with a 4-0 victory, ensuring the series would continue for at least one more game.
That pivotal Game 6 is set for Saturday in Dallas. Will the Stars successfully punch their ticket to the Western Conference finals, potentially setting up a rematch against the Edmonton Oilers? Or can the Jets force a decisive Game 7 back on their home ice on Monday?
This preview offers insights into the upcoming Game 6, incorporating statistical data, a summary of other recent playoff action, and highlights of notable player performances from Friday`s games.
Matchup Notes
Dallas Stars at Winnipeg Jets
Game 6
Teams that have held a 3-1 lead in a playoff series have an impressive track record in recent years. Since 2023, teams in this position are 23-1, with the only team failing to advance being the Bruins against the Panthers in the first round of 2023.
Winnipeg`s goaltender, Connor Hellebuyck, faces the challenge of overcoming a significant split in his playoff performance based on venue. He has been dominant at home with a 6-1 record, a 1.73 goals-against average, and a .916 save percentage. However, on the road, his record stands at 0-5 with a high 5.84 GAA and a .793 SV%.
Kyle Connor has been a consistent offensive threat for Winnipeg, tallying 16 points in 12 games. His scoring rate of 1.33 points per game ranks as the third highest in a single postseason for an American-born player (minimum 10 games played), behind Jake Guentzel (1.75 in 2018) and Brian Leetch (1.40 in 1995).
Dallas Stars netminder Jake Oettinger has shown resilience in the playoffs following a loss. In 23 career postseason games after a defeat, he holds a strong 17-6 record with a 2.03 GAA and a .924 SV%, including one shutout.
Highlights from Friday`s Playoff Games
Auston Matthews
C, Toronto Maple Leafs
Matthews netted the crucial first goal of the game in the third period, which ultimately stood as the game-winner. This marked his first goal against the Panthers in his postseason career and his first ever goal scored beyond the first round.
Maple Leafs Shot Blockers
The Maple Leafs defense and forwards combined to block 31 shots during the game. These blocks were particularly important late in the third period, contributing significantly to Joseph Woll`s shutout performance and helping the team force a Game 7.
Max Pacioretty
LW, Toronto Maple Leafs
Veteran forward Max Pacioretty provided the insurance goal in the third period. This was his third goal of the postseason as he continues his quest for his first career Stanley Cup championship.
Friday`s Game Recap
Toronto Maple Leafs 2, Florida Panthers 0
Series tied 3-3 | Game 7 Sunday
With a trip to the Eastern Conference finals on the line for Florida and the continuation of their playoff hopes at stake for Toronto, the game remained scoreless through the first two periods, highlighted by impressive saves from both goaltenders. Toronto captain Auston Matthews finally broke the deadlock at 6:20 of the third period, scoring what proved to be the winning goal. Max Pacioretty added a second goal at 14:17 for insurance. Goaltender Joseph Woll rebounded from a difficult Game 5 performance to stop all 22 shots he faced for a shutout. The series is now tied, heading back to Toronto for the decisive Game 7 on Sunday.
