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The Winnipeg Jets began their season with an exhilarating match against the Dallas Stars, which ended in disappointment. Playing without their captain and leading defender, the Jets fell behind early, struggling to overcome a four-goal deficit. Although they mounted a spirited comeback, the game concluded with a score of 5-4, marking the end of their seven-game winning streak in season openers.
As the night unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with excitement, especially during the unveiling of the Central Division and President’s Trophy banners from the previous season. Fans showed immense enthusiasm for the 2025-26 squad, but it was Jonathan Toews, a local hero, who captured the crowd’s heart.
He received a thunderous ovation as he emerged from the tunnel, with applause ringing out for nearly a minute in a touching tribute.
First period: A rollercoaster of emotions
The Winnipeg Jets faced an early setback as the Dallas Stars scored just 3:15 into the game.
Sam Steel controlled the puck in the Winnipeg zone without opposition, setting up Roope Hintz for a shot. Although Hintz’s attempt was blocked, Mikko Rantanen capitalized on the rebound, giving the Stars a 1-0 lead.
However, Winnipeg’s top line quickly responded.
Just over three minutes later, Gabriel Vilardi advanced the puck into the Dallas zone and found Mark Scheifele in a favorable position. Scheifele promptly passed to Kyle Connor, who initially mishandled the puck but regained control, sliding it past Jake Oettinger to equalize the game at 1-1.
Following a successful penalty kill, the Dallas Stars quickly regained the lead against the Winnipeg Jets. Mikko Rantanen maneuvered along the boards and spotted Nils Lundkvist sneaking into the slot. Lundkvist received the pass and fired a shot past Connor Hellebuyck, restoring Dallas’s lead to 2-1.
The first period concluded with the Stars leading in shots on goal, 9-7.
Missed opportunities in the second period
In the second period, both teams struggled to find the back of the net despite numerous opportunities. The Stars outshot the Jets 17-7, yet neither team converted on their chances. The Jets squandered two power plays, while the Stars failed to capitalize on a 5-on-4 and a 4-on-3 advantage. As the period drew to a close, the Stars were granted an extended 5-on-3 opportunity but could not convert before the horn sounded.
Third period: A glimmer of hope
As the third period commenced, the Dallas Stars quickly built on their lead. Just 61 seconds in, Jason Robertson scored following a scramble in front of the net, bringing the score to 3-1. The Stars maintained their offensive pressure, and less than a minute later, Matt Duchene assisted Tyler Seguin for an easy goal, increasing the lead to 4-1.
Facing a significant challenge, the Winnipeg Jets saw Wyatt Johnston add another goal at 3:23, pushing the score to 5-1. However, the home crowd found something to celebrate when Morgan Barron scored on a shorthanded breakaway, demonstrating both skill and determination.
Final push and narrow defeat
As the momentum shifted, Winnipeg’s Kyle Connor scored again, bringing the score to 5-3 following a quick follow-up shot from a rebound. The crowd buzzed with excitement as the Jets pressed on, and Connor struck once more with just over three minutes remaining, narrowing the gap to 5-4.
With time winding down, the Jets earned a power play after a Dallas penalty, providing them an opportunity to tie the game. However, despite their efforts and a brief review of the play, they were unable to convert, and the final whistle sealed their fate.
Ultimately, Connor Hellebuyck made 32 saves but could not secure a win. Notably, Connor made history by scoring in his eighth consecutive season opener. The Jets will aim to bounce back as they host the L.A. Kings on Saturday at 12:30 p.m., with pregame coverage beginning at 10 a.m. on 680 CJOB.
