Connor Hellebuyck gave Winnipeg exactly what it needed: a vintage, dominant performance between the pipes to bring the Jets back level in their second-round showdown against the Dallas Stars.
After enduring some bumpy stretches earlier in the postseason, the Vezina Trophy winner looked every bit like his elite self on Friday night, posting a 21-save shutout in a convincing 4–0 victory against Stars. It marked his first playoff shutout in nearly three years, dating back to May 2021.
“There were stretches in the first round where I really liked my game,” Hellebuyck admitted according to NHL.com. “Just wasn’t in the results, but built it back better.”
MVP chants, Vezina form
Chants of “MVP! MVP!” echoed around the building as the final horn sounded, and Hellebuyck’s steady presence in net was the backbone of Winnipeg’s bounce-back. While the best-of-seven series is now tied 1-1, the Jets will head into Game 3 in Dallas with a renewed sense of confidence.
“I like where we’re at,” Hellebuyck added. “The team in front of me is playing phenomenal, so we’re going to have fun. Just continue to have fun.”
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The Jets capitalized early on a double-minor penalty for high-sticking, grabbing a 1-0 lead and setting the tone. Defensively, they clamped down on Dallas’ top guns, including Mikko Rantanen, who had been red-hot entering the series.
Jets: A full, healthy lineup at last
According to head coach Scott Arniel, it was the first time Winnipeg had its full lineup available since late March. That full-health advantage showed. The Jets’ structure was strong, their penalty kill sharp, and when breakdowns did occur, Hellebuyck erased the danger.
Hellebuyck has not allowed a goal since Rantanen completed his hat trick in the second period of Game 1. Since that moment, he has resembled the goaltender who carried Jets to contention — calm, confident, and efficient.
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“We’re still playing hockey and it’s May. So, that’s fun,” Hellebuyck said. “It’s the best time of year because you’ve dialed your game in all year long and you’re just going out and playing hockey and having fun.” Game 3 is set for Sunday, where the Jets will try to carry the momentum from their netminder’s statement night deep into enemy territory.
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