Jets – Stars: Western Conference Showdown in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs
The Western Conference Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs features an electrifying series: jets – stars. For the first time, the Winnipeg Jets face off against the Dallas Stars in postseason play. After dramatic Game 7 victories in the first round, both teams arrive ready to battle for conference supremacy and a shot at the Stanley Cup.
How the Jets and Stars Reached Round Two
Both Winnipeg and Dallas navigated tough first-round matchups. The Jets overcame deficits to defeat the St. Louis Blues in double overtime, displaying exceptional resilience and a never-quit attitude. Meanwhile, the Stars delivered a stunning comeback against the Colorado Avalanche, scoring three times in the final period for a memorable victory in front of their home fans.
Read more about the dramatic run and full series breakdown in the NHL's official playoffs preview.
Key Storylines: Injuries and Game Breakers
Injuries are a major factor in this jets – stars duel. Winnipeg faces uncertainty with star center Mark Scheifele and defenseman Josh Morrissey both dealing with issues. The Stars are monitoring the status of forward Jason Robertson and defenseman Miro Heiskanen, whose returns could shift the balance.
On the attack, Kyle Connor continues to lead Winnipeg. His playoff performance is vital, as is support from rising stars like Cole Perfetti. Dallas counters with new addition Mikko Rantanen, who recorded a hat trick in Game 7. Consistent contributors like Wyatt Johnston and Roope Hintz provide depth for the Stars.
Goaltending: The Series X-Factor
Goaltending often decides playoff series, and the jets – stars clash is no different. Winnipeg's Connor Hellebuyck, the reigning Vezina Trophy winner, is a finalist again after a mixed first round. He looks to rebound and provide stability in net. Dallas relies on Jake Oettinger, whose solid stats and playoff poise anchor the Stars' defensive strategy. Backups Eric Comrie and Casey DeSmith may see ice time if the games go long or injuries occur.
Series Schedule and Broadcast Info
Fans eager to follow every moment of this series can reference the complete schedule and TV information for the second round. Dallas currently leads the series 1-0, but with multiple games remaining, the tide can shift quickly.
Table of upcoming games:
| Game | Date | Location | Time (ET) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Stars 3, Jets 2 | Winnipeg | Completed |
| 2 | May 9 | Winnipeg | 9:30 p.m. |
| 3 | May 11 | Dallas | 4:30 p.m. |
| 4 | May 13 | Dallas | 8:00 p.m. |
| 5* | May 15 | Winnipeg | TBD |
| 6* | May 17 | Dallas | TBD |
| 7* | May 19 | Winnipeg | TBD |
*If necessary
What Each Team Needs to Win
The key to a Winnipeg victory is continued secondary scoring. Players like Perfetti, Namestnikov, and Pionk need to step up, especially if Scheifele is limited. For Dallas, maintaining the momentum of their top performers and welcoming back injured stars could be decisive. Scoreline predictions and up-to-date lineups are included in the official Jets – Stars series preview.
Conclusion: Expect High-Intensity Hockey
The jets – stars series promises the intensity, passion, and unpredictability that only the Stanley Cup Playoffs deliver. With deep rosters, elite talent, and plenty of storylines, hockey fans will not want to miss a single moment. For additional updates, game summaries, and full playoff coverage, visit the NHL's second round resource page.
Stay tuned and experience playoff hockey at its best—because every game, every shift, and every save could be the difference between glory and defeat.