The Dallas Stars extended their winning streak to seven games on Saturday night with a 3-0 victory over the Seattle Kraken, but the win may have come at a cost for their postseason hopes.
Less than 20 seconds into the third period, Adam Larsson of the Kraken was given a five-minute major penalty and a game misconduct for a hit on Dallas defenseman Chris Tanev. The hit left Tanev in a vulnerable position, and he had to leave the ice with trainers. Although he briefly returned later in the period, he did not finish the game.
Stars head coach Pete DeBoer provided no update on Tanev’s condition after the game, stating that they would evaluate him further once they returned to Dallas. Tanev, who was acquired from the Calgary Flames in February, has been averaging over 18 minutes of ice time per game with the Stars.
Despite the injury scare, the Stars managed to capitalize on the power-play opportunity resulting from the hit, with Joe Pavelski scoring less than 10 seconds into the man advantage. The win keeps the Stars at the top of the Central Division and Western Conference standings, three points ahead of the Colorado Avalanche.
With their playoff spot secured, the Stars are now chasing the New York Rangers for the Presidents’ Trophy. The team will be hoping for positive news on Tanev’s condition as they look to maintain their momentum heading into the postseason.