Dallas Stars Secure Victory Over Colorado Avalanche in Game 7
Dallas, Texas – May 03, 2025
The Dallas Stars prevailed in a thrilling Game 7, defeating the Colorado Avalanche 4-2 to clinch the first round of the Western Conference playoffs. Mikko Rantanen played a pivotal role, contributing significantly in the third period.
Key Moments of the Game
Rantanen assisted on Wyatt Johnston’s critical power-play goal with less than four minutes remaining, followed by scoring a hat trick that included an empty-netter. This performance marked a historic achievement; Rantanen became just the second player in NHL history to score four points in the third period of a Game 7.
Game Progression
The Avalanche initially surged ahead with a 2-0 lead, courtesy of Nathan MacKinnon’s goal just 31 seconds into the third. However, the Stars rallied back, with Rantanen scoring the first Dallas goal from the circles and later equalizing with a wraparound shot that deflected off Avs defenseman Samuel Girard.
As the game neared its conclusion, Rantanen sealed the Stars’ victory with an empty-net goal, marking his first playoff hat trick.
Performance Analytics
Stars’ goaltender Jake Oettinger delivered an impressive performance with 24 saves, while Avalanche goalie Mackenzie Blackwood stopped 15 shots. Rantanen’s achievement in this game contributes to his notable playoff series performance, totaling five goals and seven assists against his former team.
Moreover, Stars coach Pete DeBoer made history by achieving nine Game 7 victories, a record across different teams.
Looking Ahead
With this victory, the Stars advance to face either the Winnipeg Jets or the St. Louis Blues in the next round. The matchup will determine the home ice advantage, with the Jets holding that edge if they qualify.
Team History and Series Context
The Avalanche have faced challenges in Game 7s, having lost their last seven since 2002, further extending the streak with this latest defeat. Contrarily, the Stars maintain an undefeated record in Game 7s against the Avalanche, having previously reached the Stanley Cup Final in each of their first three encounters.