WINNIPEG — It was a textbook victory. In Friday`s 4-0 win over the Dallas Stars, which tied the second-round playoff series 1-1, the Winnipeg Jets executed virtually every aspect of their gameplan flawlessly.
Both special teams units proved highly effective: Gabriel Vilardi opened the scoring on the power play at 16:25 of the first period. The penalty kill successfully neutralized all three of Dallas`s power-play opportunities, allowing only one high-danger shot against.
Goaltender Connor Hellebuyck delivered a stellar performance, stopping all 21 shots he faced to earn a shutout.
Winnipeg`s depth lines also contributed offensively, showcasing their strength in that area. Adam Lowry scored the third goal after an excellent shift by the fourth line, which successfully hemmed the Stars in their own zone.
Furthermore, the Stars` potent top line — consisting of Roope Hintz, Mikko Rantanen, and Mikael Granlund — was completely shut down by the Jets` defense, managing a mere two shot attempts at five-on-five.