The Dallas Stars faced off against the Colorado Avalanche in a thrilling Game 3 of their first-round playoff series on April 23, 2025, at Ball Arena. The Stars emerged victorious, defeating the Avalanche 2-1 in overtime, thanks to a clutch goal from Tyler Seguin. This win not only put the Stars ahead 2-1 in the series but also marked their second consecutive overtime victory.
As the puck dropped, the atmosphere in Ball Arena was electric, particularly with the return of Avalanche captain Gabriel Landeskog. It had been 1,032 days since Landeskog last suited up for a game, and the crowd was eager to welcome him back. He played over 13 minutes, leading his team with six hits, and despite the loss, he expressed his joy at being back on the ice. “Felt great in all areas tonight in terms of being back,” Landeskog said. “Very special night regardless of the outcome.”
For the Stars, the game was a test of resilience. They had to kill off a late double-minor penalty incurred by Mason Marchment, who was sent off for a high stick that caught Brock Nelson in the face. Coach Pete DeBoer praised the team's penalty killing, which has been one of the best in the league over the past three years. “We felt confident into the overtime that we could get the job done,” he stated. “Knowing Mason and how he was feeling about that penalty, you couldn’t have written a better script for how it ended.”
In a game where the Stars struggled to maintain the lead, Jamie Benn tied the game midway through the third period, allowing Dallas to push the game into overtime. Seguin then sealed the deal at 5:31 of the extra period, scoring his second career playoff overtime goal, with his first dating back to 2012 with the Boston Bruins. He reflected on the team effort, stating, “There’s so much more tonight than that goal. It’s the penalty kill, it's the details of the game of what the guys did. ... I was just the beneficiary of it. Collectively, just a great road win by the guys.”
On the other side, the Avalanche struggled to capitalize on their power play opportunities, finishing 0 for 6. Coach Jared Bednar admitted that there were many areas needing improvement, simply stating, “everything” when asked what needed to change. Valeri Nichushkin scored the only goal for Colorado in the first period, but the team couldn't find the back of the net again, despite numerous chances.
As Game 4 approaches on Saturday night, April 26, 2025, in Denver, the Stars will look to build on their momentum and secure a commanding series lead. With Miro Heiskanen possibly returning from injury, the Stars could see a significant boost to their defensive lineup. Heiskanen's recovery has been progressing well, and his presence on the ice could be pivotal in the upcoming game.
Meanwhile, the Avalanche will need to regroup and find a way to break through the Stars' formidable defense and penalty kill. With Landeskog back, they have a renewed sense of hope, but they must convert their opportunities to avoid falling further behind in the series.
This playoff series has already showcased the intensity and excitement of NHL hockey, with both teams demonstrating their skills and determination. As the Stars and Avalanche prepare for Game 4, fans can expect another hard-fought battle as both teams vie for supremacy in this thrilling first-round matchup.
