Stars' Jake Oettinger credits team effort in 3-0 win over Jets

Goaltender highlights improved defensive play and contributions from role players during playoff push.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 11:42pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game, with overlapping planes of navy, green, and blue representing the players, puck, and ice in an abstract, deconstructed style.Oettinger's focused performance and the Stars' collective effort propel the team to a crucial shutout victory as the playoff race intensifies.Dallas Today

Dallas Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger spoke to the media after his team's 3-0 shutout victory over the Winnipeg Jets. Oettinger credited the team's improved defensive effort and consistency for the win, noting the strong play of the penalty kill unit. The 29-year-old also discussed his mental approach to staying focused during quieter stretches of the game, simulating shots in his mind to avoid losing concentration. Oettinger expressed happiness for role players like defenseman Kyle Capobianco, who stepped up with key contributions in the absence of injured starters.

Why it matters

The Stars' win over the Jets comes at a crucial time as the team pushes for a playoff spot. Oettinger's comments highlight the team's ability to win games through a collective effort, relying on strong defensive play and contributions from throughout the lineup, which will be important as the Stars navigate the final stretch of the regular season.

The details

Oettinger said the Stars were able to maintain a high level of play for longer stretches compared to previous games, crediting both the defensive and offensive efforts of his teammates. The goaltender noted that the penalty kill unit was particularly effective, allowing him to stay focused despite facing fewer shots. Oettinger also revealed that he has been working on the mental aspect of the game, simulating shots in his mind when the action is sparse to avoid losing concentration.

  • The Stars defeated the Jets 3-0 on Thursday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Jake Oettinger

A 29-year-old goaltender for the Dallas Stars who won a gold medal with the United States national team at the Olympics.

Kyle Capobianco

A defenseman for the Dallas Stars who returned to the lineup and contributed in the win over the Jets.

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What they’re saying

“I think we just played better for longer stretches, but, you know, more consistent. PK [penalty kill] stuck up big time. I mean, I really didn't have a lot going on on the kill, and, you know, so that was awesome. And yeah, just good defensive effort and then let the offense take care of itself.”

— Jake Oettinger, Goaltender

“Lately, I think we've been trying to work on just staying in it the whole game. I mean, it's pretty easy to doze off and make sure nothing in the back of your net. So, just trying to stay focused.”

— Jake Oettinger, Goaltender

“If I'm not getting shots, I'm trying to simulate things in my head and try to kind of stay in it. And I thought I did a good job of that. And then, obviously, you knew they were gonna push, so I just tried to make a couple of timely saves so it didn't get close, and it just went good there at the end.”

— Jake Oettinger, Goaltender

“It's awesome. I mean, obviously, we're banged up right now. It's no secret. So, seeing guys come in and contribute is awesome, and there are a lot of great guys in here who can help us win. So, yeah, whenever guys get their chance and make the most of it, you're really happy for them.”

— Jake Oettinger, Goaltender

What’s next

The Stars will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a playoff spot in the final games of the regular season.

The takeaway

Oettinger's comments highlight the Stars' ability to win games through a collective team effort, relying on strong defensive play, contributions from role players, and a focused mental approach from the goaltender. This well-rounded performance will be crucial for the team as they aim to secure a postseason berth.