For many, breaking even after a weekend in Las Vegas is considered a success. The Dallas Stars, however, have already achieved more, clinching a thrilling 3-2 overtime victory against the Vegas Golden Knights in Saturday’s Western Conference first-round clash. Yet, with the series still favoring the Knights at 2-1, Peter DeBoer’s top-seeded squad is eager to seize another road triumph on Monday night.
Ironically, the hero of Game 3 for the Stars is a player too young to gamble in Las Vegas. Center Wyatt Johnston, who turns 21 on May 14, scored two pivotal goals, including the game-winner in overtime, showcasing his prowess on the ice.
“What a player. He still can’t get into the casino and play cards,” DeBoer exclaimed. “He’s not old enough. That’s unbelievable.”
Johnston, selected 23rd overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, delivered a standout performance with 65 points in the regular season, including a team-leading 32 goals, underscoring his impact beyond his years.
The game-winning moment saw Johnston maneuver around defenseman Shea Theodore before unleashing a sharp-angle shot from the right circle, securing the victory over Vegas goalie Logan Thompson.
“It’s one thing being elite in the regular season,” noted Stars forward Tyler Seguin, “but to do it in the playoffs at his age, that’s great.”
The Stars’ early 2-0 lead in the second period was met with a strong Vegas rally, thanks in large part to Thompson’s remarkable 43 saves. Despite the Knights’ resurgence, Dallas remained resilient, ultimately clinching the crucial win.
“We knew the situations coming into Vegas,” Seguin emphasized. “Our message was focusing on your next shift.”
Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy acknowledged Dallas’ assertiveness on the road, noting their sense of urgency and determination.
“They had a sense of urgency that we weren’t able to match,” Cassidy admitted. “Sometimes that happens.”
As the series progresses, both teams are gearing up for an intense Game 4 showdown, with Vegas aiming to bounce back and Dallas seeking to maintain their momentum and even the series.
“They took it to us,” reflected McNabb of the Knights. “We’ll learn from it and have a better start in Game 4.”
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