The second-round playoff clash in the Stanley Cup between the Winnipeg Jets and the Dallas Stars will take place on May 16 at the Canada Life Centre. The series score is 3-1 in favor of Dallas. Winnipeg vs. Dallas: prediction and betting odds, statistics.
Winnipeg Jets
Scott Arniel's team suffered their second consecutive defeat in the series, losing 1-3 on the road and finding themselves on the brink of playoff elimination. The only goal for the team was scored by Nikolaj Ehlers early in the second period. In the current playoffs, Winnipeg ranks among the worst in power play conversion (15.8%) and is also the team that has conceded the most goals in this Stanley Cup run.
- Winnipeg has won 6 of their last 7 home NHL matches (2 in OT).
- The team has scored at least three goals in regulation time in 7 of their last 10 home league meetings.
- At least five goals have been scored in regulation time in 7 of Winnipeg's last 9 NHL matches.
Dallas Stars
Peter DeBoer's team extended their series lead by securing their fifth consecutive home victory in this playoff (1 in OT). Notably, the visitors converted two power plays. All of Dallas's goals were scored by Mikael Granlund, who recorded a hat-trick. In this Stanley Cup campaign, the club boasts one of the highest penalty kill percentages (89.5%) and is also among the top three in power play conversion (32.4%). Dallas is also one of the best in scoring, with 32 goals to their name.
- Dallas has lost after three periods in 5 of their last 7 away NHL games.
- The club has conceded at least four goals in regulation time in 5 of their last 7 away league games.
- At least five goals have been scored in regulation time in 5 of Dallas's last 7 NHL matches.
Winnipeg vs. Dallas: Match Prediction
Despite Dallas currently looking more active and outplaying their opponents at least in terms of skill, I doubt Peter DeBoer's team will close out the series in the upcoming match. Winnipeg faces significant challenges in this playoff on the road, but they have been quite successful at home. In this Stanley Cup run, as the home team, they have won 5 out of 6 times (1 in OT), so they may well extend their playoff participation.
Dallas, on the other hand, is not as strong in away games, having lost 6 of their last 8 away encounters (1 in OT). Additionally, Winnipeg has won 7 of their last 11 home NHL meetings (1 in OT, 1 in shootouts).
With Dallas holding the lead in the series, they might relax, while Winnipeg must give their all, especially on home ice. I believe the hosts will reduce the gap.
My prediction: Winnipeg Jets to win the match
