Stars Face Jets in Game 1 of Second Round Playoffs

WINNIPEG, MB – The Dallas Stars take on the Winnipeg Jets in Game 1 of the Western Conference’s second round of the NHL playoffs on May 7, 2025, at 9:30 PM ET. This matchup comes after both teams fought hard in their first-round series with significant victories.

The Stars come into the game with a 4-3 series win over the Colorado Avalanche, highlighted by a crucial game-winning goal from forward Wyatt Johnston in Game 7. Johnston scored late in the game, marking it as one of the latest go-ahead goals in playoff history. He has been a key player this postseason, tallying seven points thus far. “It’s exciting to be in this position again,” Johnston said.

The Jets also secured their spot in the second round with a dramatic 4-3 overtime victory against the St. Louis Blues. Trailing by two goals in the final minutes of regulation, the Jets rallied back to tie the game thanks to goals from Vladislav Namestnikov and Cole Perfetti. “We showed a lot of heart to make that comeback,” said Jets forward Kyle Connor, who has consistently performed well this postseason, leading the team in points.

Both teams boast strong goaltending, with the Stars’ Jake Oettinger and the Jets’ Connor Hellebuyck expected to face off. Oettinger has an impressive playoff record over the past two seasons, while Hellebuyck is a two-time Vezina Trophy winner. DeBoer, the Stars’ coach, remarked on the competitive atmosphere ahead, “We have to be ready for Hellebuyck. He’s one of the best.”

Despite key injuries affecting both sides, including the potential returns of top defenseman Miro Heiskanen for the Stars and forward Mark Scheifele for the Jets, both teams appear ready for the challenge ahead. Oettinger noted, “Getting our best players back will play a significant role.”

As the puck drops in Winnipeg, the battle between these two resilient teams promises to deliver high-stakes hockey. “It’s going to be a great series,” said Oettinger. With both teams showing determination, the outcome remains uncertain.