The NHL playoffs are just around the corner, and one of the most exciting first-round matchups is going to be between the Dallas Stars and the Colorado Avalanche. These two teams have met before in the playoffs — most recently in 2020 — and Dallas has come out on top in both meetings. But this time, things could go differently. Colorado looks stronger than ever, and they may finally get their revenge over Dallas in what promises to be a tight and entertaining series.
Miro Heiskanen’s Injury Could Hurt Dallas
One of the biggest concerns for Dallas going into this series is the injury status of star defenseman Miro Heiskanen. He hasn’t played since January 28 due to a knee injury that required surgery. Although the Stars have still performed well without him, going 18-7-5 in his absence, missing a top-pair defenseman who plays over 25 minutes per game could be a major problem in the playoffs.
Without Heiskanen on the ice, it becomes difficult for Dallas to match up against Colorado’s Cale Makar, who is the favorite to win this year’s Norris Trophy for the league’s best defenseman. Makar is a game-changer, and if the Stars don’t have their own elite blueliner to match him, that could tilt the series in the Avalanche’s favor.
Colorado Has the Upper Hand in Recent Meetings
Looking at their regular season matchups, Colorado holds the edge with a 2-1-0 record against Dallas. They won the last two games, including a 4-3 overtime victory on March 16. The one game Dallas did win was back in November, before Colorado made some important changes to their goaltending and lineup.
Interestingly, in both wins against Dallas, Colorado used their backup goalie Scott Wedgewood instead of starter Mackenzie Blackwood. So, in this playoff series, Dallas will face Blackwood for the first time — and that unfamiliarity could work to Colorado’s benefit.
Team Stats Comparison: A Close Battle
When we look at team stats, Dallas does have a slight edge. The Stars score an average of 3.38 goals per game, a little better than Colorado’s 3.32. They also allow fewer goals, with a goals-against average of 2.64, compared to Colorado’s 2.83.
However, special teams could be the deciding factor. Colorado has the better power play, converting at 24.7 percent compared to Dallas’ 22.8 percent. In playoff hockey, power play goals can turn the tide in close games, and the Avalanche could benefit from that advantage.
Why Colorado Has the Edge
While both teams are strong and full of talent, Colorado may have the best overall player in the series — Nathan MacKinnon. His speed, skill, and leadership can carry the Avalanche when it matters most. MacKinnon has been playing with intense determination, and that drive might just push Colorado past Dallas.
Both teams have playoff experience, quality depth, and great coaching. But without Heiskanen, Dallas may struggle to keep up with Colorado’s high-speed, aggressive style.
The Stars vs. Avalanche series could be one of the most thrilling matchups of the entire first round. Both teams have what it takes to go deep in the playoffs, but Colorado looks slightly better on paper, especially with the power play advantage and the presence of stars like Makar and MacKinnon. If Heiskanen remains out, that could be the final push that helps the Avalanche move forward.
Whether you’re cheering for Dallas or Colorado, one thing’s for sure — this series will be full of drama, big moments, and playoff intensity. And don’t be surprised if the winner of this battle goes on to make a serious run at the Stanley Cup.
