Stars Rally Past Wild in Playoff Preview

Dallas overcomes 4-3 third-period deficit to beat Minnesota in potential first-round matchup.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 10:25am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the frenetic action of a hockey game, with players' movements and the puck blending into a vibrant, energetic composition.The Stars and Wild's thrilling playoff preview showcased the intensity and offensive firepower that fans can expect when these two Western Conference contenders meet in the postseason.Dallas Today

The Dallas Stars came from behind to defeat the Minnesota Wild 5-4 in a potential first-round Stanley Cup playoff preview on Thursday. Dallas trailed 4-3 in the third period before goals from Thomas Harley and Jason Robertson gave the Stars the comeback victory.

Why it matters

The Stars and Wild are battling for second place in the Central Division, with Dallas currently holding a four-point lead. This game was a preview of what could be a hard-fought first-round playoff series between the two Western Conference contenders.

The details

Dallas erased a 4-3 deficit in the third period, with Harley's deflected shot tying the game before Robertson's 42nd goal of the season put the Stars ahead for good. Minnesota had built its lead on a pair of power-play goals from Kirill Kaprizov, as well as tallies from Quinn Hughes, Ryan Hartman, and Cameron Hughes' first career NHL goal.

  • The game was played on Thursday, April 10, 2026.
  • Dallas and Minnesota will meet in the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs.

The players

Jason Robertson

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

Kirill Kaprizov

The Minnesota Wild forward scored two power-play goals, setting a new franchise record with his 42nd career multi-goal game.

Jake Oettinger

The Dallas Stars goaltender made 27 saves to earn his 33rd win of the season.

Miro Heiskanen

The Dallas Stars defenseman left the game late in the first period with a lower-body injury, creating a concern for the team as the playoffs approach.

Filip Gustavsson

The Minnesota Wild goaltender stopped 15 of 20 shots in the losing effort.

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What they’re saying

“We knew this was going to be a tough game against a great team, but the guys showed a lot of character to come back and get the win.”

— Rick Bowness, Dallas Stars Head Coach

What’s next

The Stars and Wild will meet again in the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs, with the winner advancing to the second round.

The takeaway

This game demonstrated the intensity and competitiveness that can be expected when these two Central Division rivals face off in the postseason, as both teams showcased their offensive firepower and resilience in a back-and-forth battle.