Stars Lead Series 2-1 Despite Early Deficits Against Avalanche

DENVER, Colorado — The Dallas Stars have taken a surprising 2-1 series lead over the Colorado Avalanche, despite leading for just over a minute during regulation in the first three games of their playoff matchup. Heading into Game 4 on Saturday night, the Stars have managed to secure crucial overtime victories, showcasing exceptional goaltending and veteran presence.

Stellar performances from goaltender Jake Oettinger have been key to the Stars’ success. The 26-year-old netminder turned aside 27 of 28 shots in Wednesday’s Game 3, leading his team to a 2-1 win in overtime after initially giving up a goal to Valeri Nichushkin. ‘When the stakes are high, I feel like I perform better,’ Oettinger said after the game.

The Stars’ penalty kill has also made a significant impact, successfully neutralizing the Avalanche’s powerful power play. In Games 2 and 3, Dallas found itself shorthanded in overtime but managed to come out strong. Esa Lindell played a crucial role in Game 3, logging over eight minutes on the penalty kill, which helped maintain their advantage in the series.

Veteran players Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin have stepped up as well, contributing goals and vital leadership. Seguin scored the decisive overtime goal in Game 3, while Benn tied the match with a power-play goal. The duo’s experience in tense situations has been invaluable to the team’s performance amid playoff pressure.

Despite their successes, the Stars have consistently faced early deficits, allowing the Avalanche to take the lead in all three games thus far. If Dallas hopes to gain control in Game 4, they must aim to establish a lead early in the match to keep the pressure on Colorado.

On the other side, Colorado’s top players, including Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar, pose ongoing threats. The Stars’ coaching staff is focused on managing penalties effectively, particularly as costly infractions have led to shorthanded scenarios that could potentially shift the series momentum back toward the Avalanche.

Game 4 is set to begin at 8:30 p.m. MT at Ball Arena in Denver. Fans are eager to see if the Stars can extend their lead or if the Avalanche will fight back to even the series.