Dallas Stars Rally to Secure Series Lead Against Colorado Avalanche with 6-2 Victory
Dallas, TX – The Dallas Stars showcased their depth and star power during a pivotal Game 5, defeating the Colorado Avalanche 6-2 at American Airlines Center, taking a 3-2 lead in their first-round playoff series.
Stars coach Pete DeBoer had expressed optimism despite key players like Wyatt Johnston and Mikko Rantanen struggling to find the net in the early games. However, Johnston struck first just nine seconds into the game, catching Avalanche goalie Mackenzie Blackwood off guard and giving Dallas an immediate 1-0 lead. Johnston went on to score twice, including a crucial power-play goal assisted by Matt Duchene, marking the latter’s first point of the series.
Rantanen also found his form, scoring in the second period, while Roope Hintz sealed the victory with an empty-netter. The game marked a significant turnaround for Dallas, as they had been under pressure throughout the series.
Yet, the Avalanche nearly shifted momentum late in the second period, narrowing Dallas’ lead from 3-0 to 3-2 after two quick goals. A controversial elbowing penalty from Sam Malinski against the Stars’ Sam Steele shifted the tide back in Dallas’ favor. During the ensuing power play, Johnston capitalized, extending the lead to 4-2.
Notably, Blackwood, who previously recorded an impressive .938 save percentage, faltered, allowing five goals on 18 shots before being replaced by Scott Wedgewood. Meanwhile, Dallas’ goalie Jake Oettinger remained sharp, making critical saves that thwarted Colorado’s attempts to regain momentum.
As the series heads to Game 6 in Denver, the pressure mounts for both teams, with intensity heightened as they vie for a chance to advance. DeBoer remains optimistic about his team’s performance, noting the importance of executing their game plan against a determined Avalanche squad.
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