The Dallas Stars are optimistic about the return of defenseman Miro Heiskanen and forward Jason Robertson during the second round of the NHL playoffs. Coach Pete DeBoer stated that while both players are currently day-to-day, specific timelines remain uncertain. Robertson, who suffered a lower-body injury, is deemed week-to-week, while Heiskanen is recovering from knee surgery performed on February 4.

Meanwhile, in the Eastern Conference, Florida Panthers’ Matthew Tkachuk is set to play in Game 1 after participating in a tailored conditioning regimen. On a concerning note, Minnesota Wild’s Joel Eriksson Ek will undergo core muscle surgery, ending his playoff run. Additionally, New Jersey Devils’ Johnathan Kovacevic will miss the start of next season following knee surgery. Their absence will significantly impact their respective teams’ playoff aspirations.

The Minnesota Wild's journey through the 2024-2025 NHL season was defined by resilience and the burden of injuries, with star winger Kirill Kaprizov missing significant time. Despite this, the Wild clawed their way into the playoffs only to face a familiar fate: a first-round exit after leading the series 2-1 against the Vegas Golden Knights. The team showcased moments of brilliance, notably in their Game 2 and Game 3 wins, but ultimately faltered in critical situations, leading to a disappointing end.

Head coach John Hynes emphasized the team's identity forged early in the season, but injuries to key players like Mats Zuccarello and Joel Eriksson Ek disrupted their momentum. The Wild's goaltending proved pivotal as Filip Gustavsson rebounded from prior struggles, yet the absence of Kaprizov was felt acutely as the team struggled offensively without their primary scorer. Despite their hard-fought efforts, history repeated itself with the Wild's ninth consecutive postseason series loss, raising questions about the future direction of the franchise.

Kirill Kaprizov powered the Minnesota Wild to a commanding 5-2 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 3 of their first-round Stanley Cup playoffs series, scoring twice on power plays. This win puts the Wild ahead 2-1 in the series, with Kaprizov and Matt Boldy leading the charge. Boldy also scored, marking his fourth consecutive game with a goal. The duo has been instrumental, tied for the Stanley Cup lead in goals with four. Joel Eriksson Ek’s strong performance complemented their efforts, as he dominated faceoffs and helped the team excel on the penalty kill.

Despite the Golden Knights' attempts to pressure, the Wild's strategic play denied top players like Jack Eichel and Mark Stone any points. Minnesota's players managed to outshoot and outchance their opponents significantly. Kaprizov's prowess is evident as he becomes only the second player to achieve multiple points in three straight playoff games since 2000, showcasing the Wild's formidable first line as they aim to extend their playoff success.

In an intense atmosphere leading into the playoffs, Minnesota Wild center Joel Eriksson Ek's contributions have shone brightly, especially following his last-minute goal against Anaheim that secured the team's playoff spot. His physical style and net-front presence play a crucial role in both offensive and defensive zones. Eriksson Ek, alongside fellow star Kirill Kaprizov, has returned from injury, and their synergy is expected to be pivotal against the Vegas Golden Knights. The Wild coach emphasized Eriksson Ek's competitive nature and versatility, noting he excels in critical game situations, especially when the stakes are high.

During their last practice, Eriksson Ek highlighted the importance of teamwork, stating that every point in the 82-game season counts. His physicality and ability to win battles in front of the net are vital for the Wild. With the playoffs underway, Eriksson Ek aims to leverage his size and skill to help the team capitalize on scoring chances, while also maintaining a strong defensive presence. His commitment to the net-front game showcases his understanding of where most goals are scored, which is essential for the Wild's playoff success.

Joel Eriksson Ek's return from injury has come at a pivotal moment for the Minnesota Wild as they prepare to face the Vegas Golden Knights in the first round of the playoffs. Eriksson Ek, who has been a critical two-way force for the Wild, has demonstrated that he thrives under pressure, evidenced by his performance since returning. The 28-year-old center, who has a history of impactful playoff appearances, will be expected to lead the Wild's top line against Vegas star Jack Eichel.

During the regular season, Eriksson Ek showcased significant offensive growth, scoring 14 goals and 15 assists in just 46 games, which would have translated to a potential 20-goal season had he remained healthy. His return to the lineup strengthens the Wild's chances as they look to avenge their previous playoff loss to the Golden Knights in 2021.