After a scoreless first two periods, Golden Knights defenseman Noah Hanifin broke the deadlock with a wrist shot from the right faceoff dot, deflecting off Ryan Suter and past Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger. Mark Stone sealed the win with an empty-net goal in the final 20 seconds.
"It was a great hockey game. Fans got their money’s worth," said Stars coach Pete DeBoer.
The series now heads to a Game 7, scheduled for 6:30 p.m. Sunday at American Airlines Center.
Here are five takeaways from the Stars’ 2-0 loss to Vegas in Game 6:
1. **Game 7 Showdown**: Despite winning three straight games earlier in the series, the Stars couldn't close it out in Game 6. The Golden Knights' victory sets up a winner-takes-all finale in Dallas. The home team has won the last two games of the series, and the Stars will aim to continue that trend.
2. **Historic Win**: Vegas' win in Game 6 was its first in a non-Game 7 elimination game in franchise history. DeBoer, the Golden Knights' coach, has never lost a Game 7, giving him and his team confidence heading into the decider.
3. **Early Pressure**: The Stars weathered an early storm from the aggressive Golden Knights in the first period. Oettinger was key, making several crucial saves to keep the game level.
4. **Goaltending Brilliance**: The goaltenders have been standout performers throughout the series. Oettinger was solid until Hanifin's goal, while Vegas' Adin Hill, making his second playoff appearance, recorded a shutout with 23 saves.
5. **Defensive Battle**: Both teams showcased strong defense throughout the game. The Stars' blue line, often criticized during the regular season, stood tall, blocking numerous shots and limiting Vegas' scoring opportunities.
6. **Special Teams**: Penalties were scarce, reflecting the disciplined play of both teams. The Stars' penalty kill was effective, shutting down the Golden Knights' power play.
The stage is now set for an exhilarating Game 7, promising high stakes and intense action as these two teams battle for a spot in the next round of the playoffs.