Robertson's Game-Winner Lifts Stars Over Wild in Thriller

Playoff preview sees Dallas and Minnesota battle in high-scoring affair

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:31am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors capturing the raw intensity and movement of a hockey game-winning goal, with the puck and players' forms dissolving into a blur of energetic brushstrokes.A dramatic, paint-splattered depiction of the game-winning moment that showcases the explosive energy and passion of the Stars-Wild rivalry.Dallas Today

The Dallas Stars and Minnesota Wild faced off in a thrilling regular-season matchup that served as a preview for their upcoming Stanley Cup Playoff series. The Stars emerged victorious, rallying from a 3-1 deficit to win 5-4 on a late game-winning goal by Jason Robertson.

Why it matters

This game highlighted the intense rivalry between the two Central Division powerhouses and showcased the high-level talent and offensive firepower that will be on display when they meet again in the postseason. The result gives the Stars a slight edge in the division standings, but the Wild proved they can hang with the conference's elite.

The details

The Stars got goals from Wyatt Johnston, Mikko Rantanen, and Colin Blackwell, while Esa Lindell recorded two assists. Goaltender Jake Oettinger made 27 saves to preserve the victory. For the Wild, Kirill Kaprizov scored twice, and Quinn Hughes set a franchise record for points by a defenseman. Mats Zuccarello had three assists, and Matt Boldy added two of his own.

  • The game was played on April 9, 2026.

The players

Jason Robertson

The Dallas Stars forward scored the game-winning goal late in the third period to lift his team to victory.

Kirill Kaprizov

The Minnesota Wild star forward scored two goals in the losing effort.

Quinn Hughes

The Minnesota Wild defenseman set a franchise record for points by a defenseman in the game.

Jake Oettinger

The Dallas Stars goaltender made 27 saves to earn the win.

Mats Zuccarello

The Minnesota Wild forward recorded three assists in the game.

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What they’re saying

“That was a heck of a game. Both teams showed why they're going to be a force in the playoffs.”

— Rick Bowness, Dallas Stars Head Coach

“We had our chances, but they found a way to win. We'll be ready for them in the playoffs.”

— Dean Evason, Minnesota Wild Head Coach

What’s next

The Stars and Wild will meet again in the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs, with Game 1 scheduled for April 15th.

The takeaway

This thrilling regular-season matchup between the Stars and Wild provided a tantalizing preview of what promises to be an epic playoff series between two of the Western Conference's top teams. The high-scoring affair showcased the offensive firepower and competitive spirit that will make their postseason clash must-see hockey.