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The NHL playoffs are heating up, and the Dallas Stars are making headlines after a dramatic Game 3 against the Winnipeg Jets. With a 2-1 series lead on the line, the Stars secured a victory thanks to a contentious goal that has left fans and players buzzing.
The incident occurred late in the game, when Alexander Petrovic found the back of the net, but not without a lengthy video review that had everyone on the edge of their seats.
The pivotal moment
As the clock ticked down, Petrovic’s goal came under scrutiny.
NHL officials spent over five minutes reviewing the play to determine if the puck had been kicked into the net. The tension was palpable as players from both teams awaited the decision. Ultimately, the officials ruled that Jets goaltender Connor Hellebuyck had inadvertently propelled the puck into his own net, giving Dallas a crucial 3-2 lead.
Coaches weigh in
The aftermath of the goal sparked a heated debate among coaches. Winnipeg’s Scott Arniel was visibly frustrated, arguing that the ruling contradicted the established rules of the game. “The rule states that if the puck gets kicked, if it hits a body or a stick of anybody else other than the goaltender, it counts as a goal.
It hit our goaltender’s stick and went in the net. That is no goal,” Arniel stated, emphasizing his disagreement with the officials’ interpretation.
On the other side, Stars coach Peter DeBoer expressed relief that the officials took the time to review the play thoroughly.
“I’m glad they got it right,” he remarked, highlighting the importance of accuracy in such high-stakes moments. Mikko Rantanen, who assisted on the play, shared his mixed feelings, noting, “I thought it was 50-50 probably, but thank God they called it a goal.”
Fan reactions and implications
As expected, the controversial goal ignited a flurry of reactions on social media, with NHL fans voicing their opinions on platforms like X. Many expressed frustration over the ruling, while others celebrated the Stars’ victory. Petrovic, who hadn’t scored in the playoffs for nearly a decade, described his goal as a “lucky goal,” but it was a moment that could shift the momentum of the series.
With Game 4 set for Tuesday in Dallas, the stakes are higher than ever. The Stars are looking to extend their lead, while the Jets are eager to bounce back and even the series. As the playoffs continue, fans can expect more thrilling moments and perhaps more controversial calls that will keep everyone talking.
