Stars score OT power-play goal to beat Jets 2-1, winning playoff series
The Dallas Stars secured their spot in the Western Conference final for the third consecutive season with a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory over the top-seeded Winnipeg Jets in Game 6 on Saturday night. Thomas Harley played the hero, scoring the game-winning goal on a power play just 1:33 into the extra period.
The game was emotionally charged, as Jets’ forward Mark Scheifele scored a goal hours after the sudden passing of his father. However, Scheifele’s tripping penalty with 14.8 seconds left in regulation gave the Stars a crucial man advantage heading into overtime.
Sam Steel had earlier put Dallas on the board with a goal, while Scheifele responded for the Jets. The pivotal moment came when Scheifele tripped Steel on a breakaway, setting the stage for Harley’s game-winner.
The Stars will now face the Edmonton Oilers in the Western Conference final for the second year in a row, with Game 1 set to take place on Wednesday. The Oilers advanced to the final after a 1-0 overtime victory over the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 5.
Dallas goaltender Jake Oettinger was stellar in net, making 22 saves to secure the series win. His highlight-reel diving save in the third period kept the Stars in the game and set the stage for Harley’s heroics.
Despite the loss, Scheifele’s teammates and opponents rallied around him after the game to offer their condolences for his loss. The emotional moment showcased the camaraderie and sportsmanship that defines the NHL playoffs.
The game was a back-and-forth battle, with both teams generating scoring chances and showcasing their resilience. Ultimately, it was the Stars who prevailed, punching their ticket to the next round with a hard-fought victory.
As the Stars prepare to face the Oilers in the Western Conference final, hockey fans can expect an intense and competitive series between two talented teams vying for a shot at the Stanley Cup. The stage is set for an exciting showdown as the remaining teams battle for supremacy in the quest for hockey’s ultimate prize.
