In a thrilling match on Monday night, the Dallas Stars defeated the Washington Capitals 3-1, fueled by a stellar performance by Roope Hintz who scored two goals, his first of the season. Jake Oettinger, the Stars’ stalwart goaltender, had a great night at the crease, stopping 25 shots.
Rookie Bichsel adds to Dallas’ scorecard
Stars rookie defenseman Leanne Pixel added to the excitement, scoring his second goal in just three NHL games. Meanwhile, Ryan Strome was able to find the back of the net for the Capitals in the opening period. Despite that early result, the Capitals’ record 10-game winning streak was snapped on the road by the resolute Stars.
Dallas Stars: Home Ice Champions
The Stars compiled an impressive 13-3-0 record at the American Airlines Center, boasting the best home runs percentage (.813) in the NHL. This victory is even more surprising considering that the Capitals entered the game with the best overall record (21-6-2) and road record (12-2-0) in the league.
Oettinger shines in goalkeeper duel
Oettinger, who has 16 wins to his credit, the second-most in the NHL, emerged victorious in a unique duel between goaltenders who not only attended the same high school (Lakeville North, Minn.) but also shared the same birthday. (December 18). ). His opponent, Charlie Lindgren, who made 21 saves, will turn 31 on Wednesday, while Oettinger will turn 26.
Hintz empowers the stars to achieve victory
Hintz was a key player in the Stars’ win, tying the score at 1-1 with a power-play goal in the second period and adding an insurance goal with just over five minutes remaining in the third period. With 13 goals, he is now tied for the club lead. Jason Robertson also contributed to the victory with two assists.
Ready meals
For the Capitals, they have an 8-3-1 record without star Alex Ovechkin, who fractured his left fibula on November 18. Ovechkin, who was wearing a non-contact shirt, was seen participating in skating exercises during the morning session. The team was also without striker Andrew Mangiapane due to illness. On the Stars side, defender Thomas Harley, second among Dallas skaters in average minutes, was sidelined due to the flu.
Key moment
One crucial moment was when the Stars thwarted a powerful third-period Capitals attack while leading 2-1, not allowing a single shot on goal.
Key statistics
The Stars’ penalty kill has been exemplary, taking 4 for 4, and in their previous four matches, all at home, they have saved 10 penalties.
What’s next
The Capitals will next travel to Chicago to face the Blackhawks on Tuesday, while the Stars will welcome the Toronto Maple Leafs to the American Airlines Center on Wednesday.