In a thrilling double-overtime victory, the Dallas Stars eliminated the Colorado Avalanche 2-1 in Game 6 of the Western Conference Second Round. Matt Duchene scored the game-winning goal at 11:42 of the second overtime, propelling the Stars to their second consecutive Western Conference Final.
Key Moments
Duchene’s decisive goal came from a backhand pass by Joe Pavelski during a net-front scramble. Earlier, Mason Marchment’s potential game-winner in the first overtime was nullified due to goaltender interference. Jamie Benn tied the game 1-1 in the third period with a backhand goal, following a pass from Evgenii Dadonov.
Outstanding Performances
Jake Oettinger made 29 saves for the Stars, while Alexandar Georgiev stopped 36 shots for the Avalanche. Mikko Rantanen scored the lone goal for Colorado.
Coach’s Remarks
Dallas coach Pete DeBoer praised his team’s resilience, noting their three road victories against one of the NHL’s best home teams. “Just fantastic character to be able to do that against that team in this building,” DeBoer said.
Looking Ahead
The Stars will face either the Vancouver Canucks or the Edmonton Oilers in the Western Conference Final. Vancouver currently leads their series 3-2.
Historical Context
Duchene became the fourth player in Stars/North Stars history to score a series-clinching goal in multiple overtimes. DeBoer earned his 17th series win, tying him for the second most among active head coaches, behind only Jon Cooper.
Colorado’s Reaction
Avalanche coach Jared Bednar acknowledged the team’s effort, despite their exhaustion. “You put so much into a season as a group and you come up short. It’s never a good feeling,” Bednar said.
Game Summary
Rantanen opened the scoring at 5:48 of the second period, giving Colorado a 1-0 lead. Benn’s equalizer at 1:56 of the third period set the stage for the intense overtime battle, ultimately decided by Duchene’s heroics.
Conclusion
The Stars’ victory highlights their determination and depth as they continue their quest for the Stanley Cup. With the Western Conference Final on the horizon, Dallas fans eagerly await the next chapter in this exciting playoff run.
Related posts:
Stars Level Series with Avalanche Following Roope Hintz’s Stellar Performance in Game 2
Stars Dominate Game 4 as Avalanche Face Elimination Pressure
Resurgent Rivalries: Why the Dallas Stars’ Clash with the Colorado Avalanche Is a Must-Watch
Dallas Stars Launch Future Stars Program with Community Gym Revamp
