Granlund's Hat Trick Leads Stars Over Jets in Game 4
Game Overview
- Teams: Dallas Stars vs. Winnipeg Jets
- Event: Western Conference Second Round, Game 4
- Location: American Airlines Center
- Date: May 13, 2025
- Score: Dallas Stars 3, Winnipeg Jets 1
- Series Lead: Dallas leads 3-1
- Next Game: Game 5 in Winnipeg on Thursday
Key Highlights
- Mikael Granlund
- Scored a hat trick, leading Dallas to a win.
- This was Granlund's first playoff hat trick and the third of his NHL career.
- Last hat trick was on December 29, 2017, with Minnesota Wild.
- Jake Oettinger
- Made 31 saves for Dallas.
- Miro Heiskanen
- Returned from a knee injury for his first game since January 28.
- Contributed with an assist in 14:52 of ice time.
- Nikolaj Ehlers
- Scored the only goal for Winnipeg.
Player Comments and Strategy
- Mikael Granlund's Strategy:
- Emphasized the surprise element in taking shots.
- Conceded there is more work ahead and acknowledged the tough upcoming game in Winnipeg.
- Jake Oettinger on Team Effort:
- Stressed the importance of everyone being healthy and contributing.
- Acknowledged the difficulty of consecutive wins and praised teammates for stepping up.
- Winnipeg Outlook (Connor Hellebuyck):
- Expressed determination to win the next game.
- Highlighted the need for one small change to turn things around.
Coaches' Insights
- Dallas Coach Pete DeBoer:
- Highlighted the energy boost from Heiskanen's return and Granlund's performance.
- Noted the necessity of maintaining health and focus for the team.
- Winnipeg Coach Scott Arniel:
- Lamented the low goal-scoring from 70 shot attempts.
- Stressed the need for more aggressive play to capitalize on opportunities.
Game Events
- Granlund's Goals:
- 1st Goal: Power-play goal, gave Dallas a 1-0 lead.
- 2nd Goal: Scored during a 2-on-1 rush in the second period.
- 3rd Goal: Completed the hat trick with a power-play one-timer.
- Ehlers' Goal:
- Tied the game 1-1 early in the second period.
Conclusion
The Dallas Stars are now one win away from reaching the Western Conference Final. Mikael Granlund's outstanding performance was pivotal in Game 4, supported by strong team effort and strategic plays. The upcoming game in Winnipeg is crucial for both teams, with Dallas looking to close out the series and Winnipeg fighting to stay in the playoffs.