DALLAS — The Dallas Stars leaned on resilience and timely offense Thursday night, overcoming a parade to the penalty box and a surging Minnesota Wild team to secure a hard-earned victory at American Airlines Center.
Rising star Wyatt Johnston set the tone early, scoring his 44th goal of the season and continuing a historic campaign for the 22-year-old. With the tally, Johnston joined rare company, becoming just the fourth NHL player since 2010-11 to reach at least 44 goals at age 22 or younger—alongside Steven Stamkos, Auston Matthews and Patrik Laine.
Johnston added an assist for a two-point night and continues to be a thorn in Minnesota’s side, now totaling 15 points in 15 career games against the Wild. His all-around production has also placed him among elite company in franchise history, becoming just the fourth player in the Dallas era to record 40 goals and 40 assists in a single season.
The night also featured a memorable milestone for Cameron Hughes, who buried the first goal of his NHL career. Hughes’ breakthrough came as part of an impactful depth effort, with Dallas controlling play at even strength when his line was on the ice.
Jason Robertson continued his scoring surge with his 41st goal of the season, extending his point streak against Minnesota to five games. Mikko Rantanen added a goal and an assist, marking his 11th career multi-point performance against the Wild, while Esa Lindell chipped in two assists to stay hot in the matchup.
On the blue line, Thomas Harley reached a personal milestone, recording his 100th career assist and becoming one of the fastest defensemen from his draft class to hit the mark.
Despite surrendering three power-play goals, Dallas found its response late. A crucial penalty kill in the closing minutes preserved the lead, highlighting what head coach Glen Gulutzan described as a defining moment.
“It wasn’t about the number of penalties—it was when we got the stops,” Gulutzan said. “That last kill showed a lot about our group.”
Dallas also got a boost from Colin Blackwell, who recorded a goal and an assist, matching his career high in helpers. Mavrik Bourque added a physical edge, tying a career high with four hits.
The game carried a playoff-like intensity throughout, something Robertson said the team expects more of as the postseason approaches.
“There was adversity all night, but we stayed with it,” Robertson said. “That’s the kind of game you learn from.”
Dallas closes the regular season with momentum—and a reminder of the grit it may need in a looming first-round showdown that now feels all but inevitable.
