The second-round playoff encounter of the Stanley Cup between the Winnipeg Jets and the Dallas Stars will take place on May 8 at the Canada Life Centre. Winnipeg vs. Dallas: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Winnipeg Jets
Scott Arniel's squad defeated St. Louis in seven games in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. Winnipeg is making its first appearance in the second round since 2021, when they were swept in the series. Highlighting the first round, Kyle Connor stood out with 12 points, placing him among the top scorers in this playoff (4 goals, 8 assists).
Winnipeg has been one of the most productive teams in the current Stanley Cup campaign, scoring a total of 21 goals. However, they also ranked second in goals conceded (27 goals). Additionally, they have one of the worst power play percentages (22.7%).
- Winnipeg has scored at least three goals in regulation time in 6 of their last 8 home NHL meetings.
- The team has won 9 of their last 10 home games in the league (3 in OT).
- At least six goals have been scored in regulation time in Winnipeg's last five NHL games.
Dallas Stars
Peter DeBoer's team will play in the second round of the NHL playoffs for the third consecutive time, having reached the conference finals in the previous two seasons. Highlighting the first round, Mikko Rantanen led the current playoff scoring chart with 12 points (5 goals, 7 assists).
Currently, Dallas has scored a total of 21 goals in this Stanley Cup campaign, one of the best results in this playoff. Additionally, the team ranks among the top three in penalty killing (86.4%).
- Dallas has not scored more than three goals in regulation time in their last nine NHL meetings at Winnipeg's venue.
- The team has lost after three periods in 4 of their last 5 away games in the league.
- No more than six goals have been scored in regulation time in 6 of Dallas's last 8 away NHL matches.
Winnipeg vs. Dallas: Match Prediction
Winnipeg did not impress in the first round, as their opponents seemed physically better and more interesting. Dallas, on the other hand, showed more promise, even though they only advanced past the first stage in seven games. Overall, the team's game plan could have concluded the confrontation earlier, and Peter DeBoer's squad remained confident and calm throughout the series with Colorado, unlike Winnipeg.
In this playoff, Dallas appears more experienced and prepared, which is where Winnipeg seems to noticeably lag behind. Despite starting the series away, I believe Dallas can challenge their opponents. Dallas has won 4 of their last 6 matches in the current playoff (2 in OT), while Winnipeg has not won in regulation time in 4 of their last 5 Stanley Cup encounters (1 draw, 3 losses).
Based on the game pattern of each team in the first round, I would favor the visitors at this stage.
My prediction: Dallas Stars with a handicap (0)
