The fourth game in the NHL Western Conference Final pitted the Dallas Stars against the Vegas Golden Knights, unfolding at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. Dallas emerged with a 3-2 overtime victory, grabbing the win in a dramatic finish that kept the series tense and quickly shifted the pressure back onto Vegas. The atmosphere was electric as both teams pushed for control in a closely contested clash that showcased the fast, physical style that has defined this playoff matchup.
Vegas struck first, with William Karlsson tipping the puck home in the fifth minute of the opening period to give the Golden Knights an early lead and a reminder that this game would demand peak performance from Dallas. The Stars responded through Jason Robertson, who tied the score in the 16th minute. Robertson’s goal sparked a back-and-forth stretch, as Vegas answered with another strike from Jonathan Marchessault, reclaiming the lead for the visitors. But Dallas did not back down. Robertson produced a second equalizer later in the period, restoring parity and setting the stage for a tense finish.
The contest remained deadlocked through regulation, with both teams trading chances and goaltenders making key saves at every turn. In overtime, the Stars found the decisive moment when Joe Pavelski buried the game-winning goal. The tally not only clinched the victory in a critical game but also highlighted Pavelski’s experience and ability to deliver under playoff pressure. The win gave Dallas the momentum, but the series status tilted back toward Vegas, now standing at 3-1 in favor of the Golden Knights as the teams moved toward the next chapter of the series.
Earlier in the playoffs, the Florida Panthers had already secured a final berth by sweeping the Carolina Hurricanes in their series, underscoring the intense competition shaping the Stanley Cup chase this season. In related news, it had been reported that Russian forward Evgeny Dadonov of the Dallas Stars would be unavailable for the matchup against the Golden Knights, a development that affected team composition and strategies during the series.
Overall, the game at the American Airlines Center delivered a memorable installment in a closely watched playoff rivalry. Fans saw a tight contest with momentum swings, clutch plays, and a conclusion that reinforced the high stakes of the Western Conference Final. As the series continued, both teams would look to tighten their systems, refine their power-play execution, and capitalize on every scoring opportunity as they pursued a coveted spot in the conference final and, ultimately, the pursuit of the championship.