Stars and Jets: A Battle for the Western Conference Finals
The Dallas Stars were poised to close out their series against the Winnipeg Jets in Game 5 on Thursday. However, the Jets had other plans, shutting out the Stars 4-0 and extending their postseason journey by at least one more game. This sets the stage for a thrilling Game 6 showdown in Dallas on Saturday at 8 p.m. ET, broadcasted on ABC/ESPN+. The big question on everyone’s mind is: Will the Stars secure their spot in the Western Conference finals for a rematch against the Edmonton Oilers, or will the Jets force a decisive Game 7 back on their home ice on Monday?
For those eager to dive deeper into the upcoming clash, ESPN has provided a game preview filled with statistical insights, a recap of Friday’s game, and the three stars of Friday from Arda Öcal.
Matchup Notes
As we look ahead to Game 6, the Stars hold a 3-2 lead in the series. According to ESPN BET, the Stars are -380 to win, while the Jets are +290 to take the series. Dallas is also +325 to win the Stanley Cup, whereas Winnipeg stands at +2200.
Historically, teams that have led 3-1 in a playoff series are 23-1 since 2023, with the only exception being the Bruins against the Panthers in the 2023 first round. This statistic certainly favors the Stars, but the Jets are not to be underestimated.
One of the key players to watch is Connor Hellebuyck. Can he overcome his challenging road/home split this postseason? At home, Hellebuyck has been stellar, going 6-1 with a 1.73 goals-against average and a .916 save percentage. However, on the road, he has struggled, with a 0-5 record, a 5.84 GAA, and a .793 SV%.
On the offensive side, Kyle Connor has been a consistent scoring threat for Winnipeg, amassing 16 points in 12 games. His 1.33 points-per-game rate is the third highest in a single postseason by an American-born player (minimum 10 games played), trailing only Jake Guentzel in 2018 (1.75) and Brian Leetch in 1995 (1.40).
For the Stars, Mikko Rantanen leads the goal- and point-scoring races this postseason, with nine goals and 19 points. His newly formed line with Mikael Granlund and Roope Hintz has been particularly effective, outscoring opponents 7-2 in 108:34 of ice time together.
In goal, Jake Oettinger has been a reliable presence for the Stars. He boasts a 17-6 record with a 2.03 GAA and a .924 SV% (with one shutout) in 23 career postseason games following a loss.
Öcal’s Three Stars from Friday
- Auston Matthews – The Toronto Maple Leafs’ No. 34 scored the first goal of the game in the third period, which turned out to be the game-winner. It was his first goal against the Panthers and his first against any team beyond the first round in his postseason career.
- Maple Leafs Shot Blockers – The Leafs blocked 31 shots in this game, including some crucial moments late in the third period, preserving a shutout for Joseph Woll and forcing a Game 7. This was Woll’s first career postseason shutout, and he received significant support from his teammates.
- Max Pacioretty – Pacioretty provided the insurance goal in the third period, marking his third of the postseason as the veteran continues his quest for his first Stanley Cup.
Friday’s Recap
In a tense Game 6, the Toronto Maple Leafs defeated the Florida Panthers 2-0, tying the series at 3-3 and setting up a thrilling Game 7 on Sunday. With a trip to the Eastern Conference finals at stake for the Panthers and the continuation of the playoff run on the line for the Leafs, both teams remained scoreless through two periods. Memorable saves by both goaltenders kept the game tight.
At 6:20 of the third period, Toronto captain Auston Matthews scored his first goal of the series, which proved to be all the team needed for the win. Max Pacioretty’s goal at 14:17 added some reassurance. After a Game 5 he’d like to forget, Joseph Woll stopped all 22 shots he faced. The two teams head back to Toronto for Game 7 on Sunday. For a more detailed account, check out the full recap.
Max Pacioretty’s backhanded goal was a clutch moment for the Leafs, giving them a 2-0 lead in a must-win Game 6 against Florida. His performance, along with the team’s defensive efforts, has set the stage for an exciting conclusion to this series.
Originally Written by: ESPN staff
