DALLAS – In the opening game of their Western Conference Final series, the Dallas Stars powered their way to a victory against the Edmonton Oilers.
The turnaround was remarkably swift.
Miro Heiskanen, Mikael Granlund, and Matt Duchene netted power-play goals within a rapid 5-minute, 26-second span during the early part of the third period. This explosive offense allowed the Stars to overcome a two-goal deficit, ultimately securing a 6-3 win on Wednesday night.
“It all started with the power play,” Duchene commented. “You get one right away, and it gives you that feeling, `Okay, we`re back in this with momentum.` Then to get another one immediately after.”
Dallas began the final period with a man advantage resulting from a penalty from the second period. Heiskanen capitalized just 32 seconds in with a shot from the blue line. Granlund then tied the game at 3, and Duchene sealed the Stars` lead with a persistent second-effort goal.
“I didn`t feel like for the first 40 minutes we made the Oilers truly earn the position they were in,” said Stars coach Pete DeBoer. “So, the guys responded. We got a bit lucky. We got some power-play goals. I`m pleased with our power play. It faced a lot of criticism at this point last year. Tonight, it proved to be the deciding factor for us, which is fantastic.”
Tyler Seguin contributed significantly with two goals and an assist for the Stars. Esa Lindell added an empty-net goal from nearly the length of the ice, contributing to their historic five-goal third period in a playoff game – a first for the franchise. Jake Oettinger made 24 saves in goal.
Game 2 is set for Friday night, also in Dallas.
Tristan Blackwood