The Dallas Stars are holding strong in the upper half of the Western Conference, currently sitting in fourth place with 65 points. Peter DeBoer’s team is in solid form, winning three of their last four games, including key victories over Vegas (twice) and St. Louis. While Dallas had a brief slump earlier this year, they have bounced back with strong offensive performances.
Dallas plays a structured, disciplined style and rarely goes on extended losing streaks. Their penalty kill is among the league’s best, and they tend to dominate the third period, outscoring opponents 52-40.
However, injuries could be a concern for the Stars. Seguin, Heiskanen, Marchment, and Lundkvist are all expected to miss the game, which could impact their defensive depth.
Key Players: Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin, Jason Robertson, Miro Heiskanen
Strengths: solid defense, strong penalty kill (84.2%), disciplined play
Weaknesses: occasional slow starts in the first two periods, forcing them to chase the game in the third
The Vancouver Canucks are fighting for a playoff spot, currently ranked ninth in the Western Conference. Their recent results have been inconsistent: after a crushing 6-2 loss to Edmonton, they responded with three consecutive wins against Washington, St. Louis, and Nashville. However, Vancouver has struggled on the road this season, securing just 10 regulation-time wins away from home.
The Canucks often play a counter-attacking style and tend to dominate second periods, but their third-period performances have been inconsistent. Defensive lapses and frequent penalties force them to rely heavily on their penalty kill, which drains their energy late in games.
Vancouver is also dealing with injuries, as Lekkerimäki and Sherwood are expected to be sidelined.
Key Players: Elias Pettersson, Quinn Hughes, Brock Boeser, J.T. Miller
Strengths: strong second-period performances (53:41 goal differential), ability to bounce back after losses
Weaknesses: poor discipline (nearly 10 penalty minutes per game), struggles in the third period
Both teams will likely start cautiously, knowing how crucial these points are. Dallas should have more puck possession, dictating the tempo, while Vancouver will look for counter-attacking opportunities. Discipline will be a key factor. The Stars average around six penalty minutes per game, while the Canucks accumulate nearly 10. If Dallas can capitalize on power plays, Vancouver may struggle to keep up.
On paper, Dallas has the edge: they have a more structured lineup, a reliable penalty kill, and the home-ice advantage. However, Vancouver is highly motivated, given their playoff push, so they won’t go down without a fight.
Prediction: Dallas wins in regulation (3-2 or 4-2)
Alternative Bets: Dallas to score in the third period, total goals under 6.5
In our opinion, Vancouver has a strong chance to challenge their opponent in this matchup. The Canucks have been in excellent form recently, stringing together three consecutive wins, including a solid victory over Washington. Historically, they have also held their own against Dallas, making it unclear why the home team is seen as the clear favorite. The Stars will likely put up a tough fight, but the Canucks have every opportunity to push the game at least into overtime. A handicap bet in their favor seems like a smart choice.
Bookmakers are offering odds of 1.95 for Dallas, 4.30 for a draw, and 3.30 for Vancouver. Total over 5.5 goals is offered for 1.95, total under for 1.90.
Prediction: Vancouver to win with an Asian handicap (+1) on goals at 1.70 odds.
