Stars edge Wild in first-round playoff preview

Robertson's late goal lifts Dallas over Minnesota in high-scoring affair

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:10pm

A cubist, geometric painting depicting a hockey game with fragmented, overlapping planes of color representing the players and action on the ice.The intense battle between the Stars and Wild showcased the high-octane offenses and physical play that could define their potential playoff matchup.Dallas Today

In a physical and entertaining matchup between two likely first-round playoff opponents, Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson scored the game-winning goal with 9:25 remaining to lift his team to a 5-4 victory over the Minnesota Wild.

Why it matters

This regular season clash between the Stars and Wild provided a preview of what could be an intense and high-scoring playoff series between the two Central Division rivals. Both teams are jockeying for position in the standings, making this an important late-season game with postseason implications.

The details

Robertson's 42nd goal of the season proved to be the difference, as the Stars held on for the one-goal win after Minnesota had rallied to tie the game earlier in the third period. The contest featured plenty of physical play and offensive fireworks, with both teams showcasing their scoring depth and talent.

  • The game was played on April 10, 2026.

The players

Jason Robertson

A 27-year-old forward for the Dallas Stars who scored the game-winning goal.

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What they’re saying

“That was a playoff-type game out there. Both teams were really battling and it came down to the wire. We're happy to get the two points, but we know we'll likely see them again soon.”

— Jason Robertson, Dallas Stars forward

What’s next

The Stars and Wild are likely to meet in the first round of the NHL playoffs, with their regular season series finale scheduled for April 12th.

The takeaway

This high-intensity clash between two of the Western Conference's top teams provided a thrilling preview of what could be an epic first-round playoff series between the Stars and Wild, two squads loaded with offensive talent and playoff experience.