Stars Take Commanding Lead in Playoffs with 5-2 Victory Over Jets

DALLAS, TX — The Dallas Stars defeated the Winnipeg Jets 5-2 in Game 3 of their second-round playoff series on May 11, 2025, taking a 2-1 lead in the matchup. Mikko Rantanen played a crucial role, contributing one goal and two assists during the game.

Rantanen’s goal in the third period came just 49 seconds after the Jets had briefly led the game 3-2 with a goal from Alex Petrovic. Rantanen’s goal was a rising wrist shot that found the net through a screen by Neal Pionk, marking his fifth game in the last six where he has tallied at least three points.

“It’s the best response team that I’ve coached in my time here,” Stars coach Pete DeBoer said. “They’re willing to accept hard coaching. You don’t have to sugarcoat it with them, which is nice.”

In the first period, Roope Hintz opened the scoring early on a power play, converting a pass from Rantanen. Kyle Connor responded for the Jets, tying the game just before the first intermission. The Jets seemed to gain momentum when Nino Niederreiter tied it 2-2 in the second period.

Dallas regained the lead with Petrovic’s controversial goal, which took nearly eight minutes to review. The officials determined the puck went off Petrovic’s skate after a collision with goalie Connor Hellebuyck.

Despite the Jets’ efforts, the Stars capitalized on their scoring opportunities. Thomas Harley and Wyatt Johnston helped secure the lead with goals in the first and second periods, respectively.

The performance of Hellebuyck was concerning, yielding five goals on 26 shots, dropping his save percentage below .800 in road playoff games this season. Dallas’s special teams were effective again, continuing their strong penalty kill during the series.

Game 4 is set for Tuesday at the American Airlines Center, where the Stars will aim to extend their series lead to 3-1. The Jets, needing to respond, will look to capitalize on scoring chances to even the series.