The Dallas Stars delivered an emphatic performance in Game 5, securing a 6-2 victory over the Colorado Avalanche to take a 3-2 series lead. Scoring just nine seconds into the game, the Stars demonstrated their urgency and control, with key contributions from Wyatt Johnston, who netted two goals and an assist, and Jake Oettinger, who made 27 saves. This win is crucial as teams leading 3-2 in a playoff series win 79% of the time. Johnston's opening goal marked the fastest playoff goal in Stars history, and his pivotal role in the game could signal his emergence as a playoff hero.

Mikko Rantanen finally scored for the Avalanche after being largely quiet, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Stars' dominant start. The Avalanche managed to pull within one goal at times, but Dallas responded quickly to maintain their lead. With Game 6 on the horizon, the Stars will aim to close out the series while Colorado fights to keep their playoff hopes alive.