The NHL playoffs continue as the Dallas Stars and the Winnipeg Jets face off in Game 1 of their Western Conference Second Round series. The highly anticipated matchup is set to take place on May 8, 2025, at 9:30 p.m. ET at the Canada Life Centre in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Both teams come into this game with momentum after hard-fought victories in the first round, making this clash a must-watch for hockey fans.
The Stars have had a rough history in Game 1s, having lost their last eight consecutive openers in best-of-seven playoff series. Their last victory in such a game came back in 2020 when they defeated the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-1 in Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, which they ultimately lost in six games. Stars coach Pete DeBoer acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, “Well, we’re going on the road, which is a good one because the last three or four have been all at home, so hopefully that changes it.”
In contrast, the Jets are riding high after a thrilling 4-3 double-overtime win against the St. Louis Blues in their first-round series, where they scored two goals in the final 1:56 of regulation to force overtime. With their home ice advantage and a perfect record at home during the first round, the Jets will look to capitalize on their momentum against the Stars.
One of the key storylines heading into Game 1 is the potential return of Jason Robertson for the Stars. Robertson, who led Dallas with 35 goals during the regular season, missed all of the first round due to a lower-body injury sustained in the final regular-season game in Nashville. His presence could significantly boost the Stars' offensive output. DeBoer mentioned, “Jason is a game-time decision, and if he returns, it will add a lot of scoring potential to our lineup.”
However, the Stars will be without Miro Heiskanen for this game, although he is expected to return later in the series. The absence of Heiskanen, who is a crucial part of the Stars' defense, puts additional pressure on goaltender Jake Oettinger. Oettinger will need to step up and deliver a standout performance if the Stars hope to steal a win on the road. Fans are eagerly awaiting what some are calling "Phenomenotter Time," as Oettinger looks to showcase his skills in a hostile environment.
As for the Jets, they face their own injury concerns, particularly with Mark Scheifele, who is a game-time decision. Scheifele has been an essential player for Winnipeg, contributing six points (two goals, four assists) in five games this postseason. If Scheifele is unable to play, it could impact the Jets' offensive strategy. Jets defenseman Neal Pionk expressed confidence in his team, stating, “I think we can ride the momentum from the last series win, but at the same time, reset and get ready for a new challenge with Dallas.”
Both teams are aware that winning Game 1 is crucial; historically, teams that win the first game of a best-of-seven series have an impressive record of 531-249 (.681). With this in mind, both the Stars and Jets are preparing to give their all as they vie for the early advantage in this highly competitive series.
The matchup also features two U.S.-born goaltenders, Connor Hellebuyck of the Jets and Jake Oettinger of the Stars, both of whom have had their share of playoff experiences. Hellebuyck has struggled in the postseason, boasting a .830 save percentage and a 3.85 goals-against average through seven games. This inconsistency could play a pivotal role in the outcome of Game 1, especially if Robertson returns to the Stars' lineup, adding a left-handed shooter who can exploit Hellebuyck's glove hand, a noted weakness.
As the puck drop approaches, the betting lines reflect the tight nature of this matchup. The Stars are currently slight favorites at -112 on the Moneyline, while the Jets come in as underdogs at -108. The spread is set at -1.5 for the Stars and +1.5 for the Jets, indicating that oddsmakers expect a close contest.
With both teams eager to establish dominance early in the series, fans can expect an intense battle on the ice. The Stars will need to weather the storm of the loud Winnipeg crowd, find their scoring depth, and ensure that key players like Oettinger are firing on all cylinders. Meanwhile, the Jets will look to capitalize on their home advantage and continue their winning streak.
As the clock ticks down to game time, the excitement builds. Will the Stars break their Game 1 curse, or will the Jets continue their strong play at home? One thing is for sure: this series promises to be a thrilling contest between two talented teams vying for a spot in the Western Conference Finals against either the Edmonton Oilers or the Vegas Golden Knights.
