Dallas Stars open semifinal battle vs. Winnipeg Jets in game 1 tonight

DALLAS, TEXAS - MAY 03: Wyatt Johnston #53 of the Dallas Stars is congratulated by Matt Duchene #95 and Roope Hintz #24 after scoring a goal past Mackenzie Blackwood #39 of the Colorado Avalanche during the third period in Game Seven of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center on May 03, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)
DALLAS, TEXAS - MAY 03: Wyatt Johnston #53 of the Dallas Stars is congratulated by Matt Duchene #95 and Roope Hintz #24 after scoring a goal past Mackenzie Blackwood #39 of the Colorado Avalanche during the third period in Game Seven of the First Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center on May 03, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images) Photo credit (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)

WINNIPEG, MB – May 7, 2025 – The Dallas Stars are deep into their Stanley Cup Playoff run, battling through the Western Conference Semifinals with hopes of bringing the Cup back to Texas. Coming off a dominant first-round victory against the Colorado Avalanche, the Stars now face the Winnipeg Jets, a team known for its relentless defense and high-speed attack.

Leading the charge is captain Jamie Benn, whose leadership and physical presence have set the tone for Dallas throughout the postseason. Meanwhile, goaltender Jake Oettinger has been a brick wall, posting one of the best save percentages in the playoffs so far.

Keys to Success

Head coach Peter DeBoer has emphasized depth scoring and defensive discipline as critical factors for a deep playoff run. The Stars’ ability to roll four strong lines has given them an edge, with emerging young stars like Wyatt Johnston and veteran playmaker Joe Pavelski stepping up in crucial moments.

Dallas’ power play has been another weapon, ranking among the top three in the playoffs, thanks to the precision passing of Miro Heiskanen and the sharpshooting of Jason Robertson. If they can maintain their special teams dominance, the Stars will have a strong chance to push past Winnipeg and continue their march toward the Cup.

The Road Ahead

If the Stars advance past the Jets, they’ll likely face either the Edmonton Oilers or the Vancouver Canucks in the Western Conference Final. With a mix of veteran leadership, rising young talent, and strong coaching, Dallas looks poised for a serious shot at hoisting the Stanley Cup—something they haven’t done since their 1999 championship run.

With Game 1 set for tonight in Winnipeg, Stars fans across Texas are buzzing with anticipation. As the puck drops, all eyes will be on Dallas to see if this year’s squad has what it takes to go the distance.

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Featured Image Photo Credit: (Photo by Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images)