DALLAS, TX — In an electrifying showdown at the American Airlines Center, the Dallas Stars staged a remarkable comeback to clinch a 5-4 victory against the Ottawa Senators on Friday. Star player Matt Duchene emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal and contributing an assist.
The game witnessed a dramatic turn of events, with Dallas initially trailing by 4-2 midway through the second period. However, the Stars’ relentless spirit shone through as they netted the last three goals to seal the win.
The match began with a setback for Dallas as goaltender Jake Oettinger conceded two goals from just two shots before leaving due to injury in the opening period. Scott Wedgewood stepped in to deliver a commendable performance, making 25 saves and bolstering the Stars’ defense.
Ottawa’s offense was led by Drake Batherson, who scored twice, while Jakob Chychrun assisted thrice and Tim Stützle added two assists. Despite their efforts, the Senators, with a record of 11-14-0, faced their third consecutive defeat. Anton Forsberg, guarding Ottawa’s goal, made 19 saves.
Thomas Harley’s shorthanded goal at 11:21 of the second period sparked the Stars’ comeback, bringing the score to 4-3. Miro Heiskanen later equalized with a precise strike at 7:33 of the third period. The game’s turning point came just 44 seconds later when Duchene’s innovative behind-the-back pass deflected off an opponent’s stick, landing the Stars a 5-4 lead.
The Senators had initiated the scoring with Travis Hamonic’s wrist shot in the first period, followed by Batherson’s goal, extending their lead to 2-0. Joe Pavelski then narrowed the gap for Dallas with a power-play goal, but Norris’ goal soon extended Ottawa’s lead again. Esa Lindell’s quick response and Batherson’s second goal set the stage for Dallas’ dramatic comeback.
The Stars, now at 17-8-3, showcased resilience and tactical prowess, turning a potential defeat into a memorable victory.
