Night 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs got off to a rocky start for the Dallas Stars. They got their match in the Minnesota Wild, who are already off to a 1-0 series lead after a thrilling Game 1. That double-overtime series starter filled the headlines with controversy.
Social Media became divided on the hit from Matt Dumba to Joe Pavelski that took him out of the game. Regardless, the Stars are now down 1-0 in the series.
The top line continued their scoring touch with goals from Roope Hintz and Jason Robertson. There is an expectation that this is a long series, and the Stars need a win Wednesday night. The Stars cannot afford to trail the series 2-0.
The His
Joe Pavelski left the game after a late hit from Matt Dumba. Dumba received a major penalty that got downgraded to a minor penalty. The legality of the hit was a heavy discussion on Social Media. The principal point of contact was a hot topic of debate about if Dumba made contact with Pavelski’s head or shoulder. The fanbase at the American Airlines Center voiced their displeasure with the call. Pavelski may be out for several games, and someone needs to fill in for his absence.
The Top Line
Robertson scored a Dallas Stars record of 109 points in the regular season. He scored a goal on the powerplay in that eventful second period. Someone else will need to fill Pavelski’s spot on the top line until he returns.
Tyler Seguin filled in for the rest of the game. The line combinations may change for Game 2.
Cannot Go Down 0-2
Every game is a new opportunity, but the odds are not in the Stars’ favor if they go down 0-2. Game 2 is not a must-win, but unofficially it is. The Stars played well in Game 1, and the win could have gone either way. They need to bounce back with a win on Wednesday because going down 2-0 is costly. The Stars could have won Game 1 with 2 powerplays in overtime but could not get the win.
Losing home-ice advantage is so they will have to win in Minnesota for a game or two if they want to continue the series. It is still early, but Wednesday is a massive game for the Stars. 6/8 of the road teams won their respective Game 1. This series is far from over, but the Stars desire a much-needed win in Game 2.
Photo: Dallas Stars Twitter
