Mikael Granlund and the Dallas Stars are now one step closer to delivering a daunting blow to the Winnipeg Jets, potentially marking them as just another name on the elusive list of Presidents’ Trophy winners who haven’t clinched the Stanley Cup. Granlund achieved a personal milestone last night at the American Airlines Center, scoring his first playoff hat trick in a thrilling 3-1 victory in Game 4 of the Western Conference Second Round. This victory puts Dallas in the driver’s seat, leading the series 3-1 as they inch closer to the Conference Final for the third consecutive year.
It’s worth noting that while the Jets showcased impressive gameplay for much of the match, they couldn’t overcome the series of setbacks that have plagued them on the road this postseason. Now with a grim 0-5 record away from home this playoff season and a staggering 0-9 in their last outings outside of Canada Life Centre, the urgency is palpable. The stage is set for Game 5 on Thursday night, where Winnipeg finds itself needing a win to defy the odds and avoid becoming the 12th straight regular-season champion to fall short in the quest for the Cup. The last time a Presidents’ Trophy winner tasted victory was back in 2013 when the Chicago Blackhawks lifted the trophy.
Granlund ignited hope for Dallas early, netting a power-play goal just 8:36 into the first period. Utilizing the space afforded to him by Jets defenseman Neal Pionk, he expertly launched a well-placed wrist shot that skimmed past Jets goalie Connor Hellebuyck. However, the momentum shifted momentarily when Jets forward Nikolaj Ehlers equalized just a minute into the second period, taking advantage of the window left after a power-play opportunity expired.
For most of the second period, the Jets dictated the pace and flow of the game, pressing for a go-ahead goal that just wouldn’t come. It was Granlund who once again seized the opportunity at 17:52, converting on a 2-on-1 breakaway after Mikko Rantanen initiated a crucial puck battle in his own end. The oxygen in the building was electric, as Granlund seamlessly found the net, putting Dallas ahead for good.
As the third period unfolded, Granlund struck again, this time with little time left on a high-sticking penalty to Haydn Fleury. His one-timer, set up brilliantly by Miro Heiskanen—returning after more than four months due to injury—secured Granlund’s first hat trick since December 2017, showcasing the importance of each player’s contribution to the team’s overall success.
On the other end, Dallas goaltender Jake Oettinger emerged as the night’s unsung hero, staving off every attack the Jets threw his way in the final stretch. His performance in the last 12 minutes was crucial, particularly when he denied Kyle Connor multiple excellent scoring chances that could have shifted the game’s momentum. Oettinger has now allowed a meager eight goals in four games this series, boasting a save percentage that puts him head and shoulders above Hellebuyck, who’s been struggling under the pressure.
The Jets, despite their regular-season accolades, are at a daunting crossroads. They need to muster all the strength and tenacity they showcased in their historic 116-point season; a season marked by records in defensive play and power play efficiency. Yet, the contrast is stark as they tumble into the playoffs, unable to replicate their regular-season prowess.
With their next game looming, there’s a heavy weight on Winnipeg’s shoulders. The agony of being mere moments away from a glorious season before watching it slip could be devastating. The players must channel the spirit that led them through a successful regular season, transforming their frustrations into focus for the road ahead.
The stage is set, and there’s no turning back now; for the Jets, it’s do or die. A win is not just crucial; it’s essential to keep their hopes alive and to rewrite the narrative surrounding a once-promising season.
Image Source: Mikael Granlund @ Instagram
