The Dallas Stars secured a dramatic 4-3 victory over the Minnesota Wild in double overtime during Game 3 of their first-round Stanley Cup playoff series, taking a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven matchup.
Why it matters: This win puts the Stars in a strong position as they head into Game 4, scheduled for April 25, 2026. The outcome could significantly impact the momentum of the series.
Dallas leads the series 2-1 following the double overtime thriller.
Wyatt Johnston scored the decisive goal at 12:54 a.m. on April 23, 2026.
The game showcased intense competition, with both teams exchanging leads and opportunities.
Driving the news: The game was marked by strategic plays and missed opportunities, particularly for the Wild, who had five power plays in the third period and overtime but failed to capitalize.
Dallas initially took a 2-0 lead with goals from Mikko Rantanen and Jason Robertson.
Marcus Johansson, Joel Eriksson Ek, and Michael McCarron rallied for the Wild, turning the tide late in the game.
Matt Duchene tied the game 3-3 with a power-play goal, setting the stage for Johnston's overtime heroics.
State of play: The Stars controlled the early game, silencing a charged crowd at Grand Casino Arena with an early power-play goal.
Rantanen scored just 85 seconds into the game after a tripping penalty against Jonas Brodin.
Robertson doubled the lead later in the first period, putting the Wild on the defensive.
The Wild responded with three unanswered goals, including a highlight-reel play by Boldy to set up Eriksson Ek.
The big picture: This series has been characterized by close contests and fluctuating momentum, with both teams displaying resilience.
Historically, the winner of Game 3 in a tied series has a strong record of 245 wins to 124 losses (.664).
With the stakes high, the upcoming Game 4 is expected to draw even more attention, especially with playoff implications on the line.
Injuries have impacted both teams, with the Wild missing key players like Mats Zuccarello and Yakov Trenin.
What they're saying: Players from both teams expressed mixed emotions following the intense game.
“Your heart goes in your throat,” Duchene said about his game-saving defensive play that denied a potential shorthanded goal.
Quinn Hughes emphasized the need for the Wild to improve their power play, stating, “We’re gonna need it again.”
Johnston noted the importance of staying focused moving forward, saying, “It’s going to be a long series for a reason.”
By the numbers: Several key statistics highlighted the game’s intensity and competitiveness.
The total goals scored were 7, surpassing the over/under of 5.5.
Dallas capitalized on three of eight power-play opportunities, a decisive factor in their victory.
Eriksson Ek logged an impressive 27 faceoff wins, demonstrating his effectiveness in the circle.
Between the lines: The game featured notable performances and strategic decisions that shaped the outcome.
Johnston's game-winning goal came on a power play, redirecting Miro Heiskanen’s shot past Wild goalie Jesper Wallstedt.
Kaprizov hit the post during one of the Wild's power plays in overtime, a near-miss that could have changed the game.
The Stars' penalty kill proved effective, stifling the Wild's attempts to capitalize on their power-play chances.
What's next: As the series continues, both teams will look to adjust their strategies ahead of Game 4.
Game 4 is scheduled for April 25, 2026, with the Wild aiming to even the series.
Dallas will seek to maintain momentum and capitalize on their recent success.
Injuries and roster decisions will play a key role in both teams' preparations for the upcoming game.