Game Recap: Stars Edge Flames in Overtime Thriller
In a high-stakes clash on Thursday night, the Dallas Stars defeated the Calgary Flames 4-3 in a riveting overtime matchup. This hard-fought victory means the Stars take a 3-2 lead in their best-of-seven series, inching closer to a potential second-round berth. With momentum swinging their way, Dallas can smell the opportunity to finish the Flames off on home ice.
How the Game Unfolded
The game kicked off with a thrilling pace, as both teams showcased their desperation. In the first period, Dallas struck first with a goal from Jason Robertson, who found the back of the net just six minutes in. But the Flames responded quickly; Elias Lindholm capitalized on a power play late in the period, leveling the score at 1-1.
As the second period rolled in, the momentum teetered. Both teams exchanged chances, but it was Dallas that took control with another goal from Roope Hintz. The Stars temporarily looked in command at 2-1. However, Calgary refused to back down, tying the score again just moments later through Matthew Tkachuk.
The third period saw more fireworks. By the halfway mark, the Flames grabbed their first lead of the night courtesy of a goal from Johnny Gaudreau. Dallas, now trailing 3-2, faced the pressure of their season. But in true playoff fashion, they rallied back. Joe Pavelski, ever the clutch performer, evened the score again with less than five minutes left, setting up an intense overtime session.
Turning Points and Key Sequences
One of the game’s defining moments came with a critical penalty kill by the Stars in the third period. Facing a 5-on-3 disadvantage, Dallas displayed exceptional teamwork and grit to stave off Calgary’s attack. Goaltender Jake Oettinger was particularly impressive, making several acrobatic saves.
Coaching decisions played a pivotal role throughout the game. Stars’ head coach Pete DeBoer kept his top lines fresh, allowing for quick responses to Calgary’s shifts in momentum. Conversely, Flames’ coach Darryl Sutter opted to load up on offense in the third period, which initially paid off with Gaudreau’s lead goal but also left his team vulnerable defensively.
Standout Performances
Both netminders were on their game, with Dallas’ Jake Oettinger saving 32 of 35 shots and Calgary’s Jacob Markström saving 34 of 38. Their efforts kept their teams in the game, showcasing remarkable reflexes as the tension escalated.
Up front, Dallas’ Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz were electric, each tallying a goal and an assist, playing pivotal roles in shifting the momentum back into the Stars’ favor. Meanwhile, Calgary’s top players, including Tkachuk and Gaudreau, constantly tested Oettinger, with Tkachuk adding a goal and an assist to his name.
Series or Playoff Context
With Dallas now leading the series 3-2, the pressure shifts to Calgary as they head back home for Game 6. Losing this match not only places them on the brink of elimination but also puts significant psychological pressure on the Flames to bounce back. For the Stars, a chance to seal the series on the road brings exciting but tense prospects as they aim for their first playoff series win since 2020.
What Comes Next
The two teams will meet again on Saturday in Calgary for Game 6. As they prepare for this critical match, tactical adjustments will be crucial. The Flames will need to focus on defensive gaps, especially given the Stars’ recent scoring success. Meanwhile, Dallas can lean on their strong power play and continue to deploy their physical game to wear down the Flames.
What adjustment should the losing side focus on before Game 6?
