NHL Playoff Game 4 Preview: Dallas Stars (2-1) vs. Colorado Avalanche (1-2)

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Colorado Avalanche logo

The Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche are set to clash in Game 4 of their first-round series in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs on Saturday, April 26, 2025, at Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado. Puck drop is scheduled for 9:30 PM ET, and the game will be broadcast on TBS, truTV, and Max. The Stars currently lead the series 2-1, and the Avalanche will look to even the series on home ice.

Team Overview:

Dallas Stars (50-26-6, 2-1 in series):
The Stars have been impressive in the postseason, showcasing their depth and resilience. They secured a narrow 2-1 victory in Game 3, with Jake Oettinger delivering a stellar performance in net, stopping 28 of 29 shots. Dallas has relied on balanced scoring, with contributions from players like Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Jamie Benn. Their penalty kill has been effective, allowing just one power-play goal in the series. The Stars will aim to maintain their defensive discipline and capitalize on their offensive opportunities to take a commanding 3-1 series lead.

Colorado Avalanche (49-29-4, 1-2 in series):
The Avalanche, the reigning Central Division champions, are facing a critical moment in the series. Despite their loss in Game 3, Colorado has shown flashes of brilliance, particularly from Nathan MacKinnon, who has been a force with three goals and one assist in the series. Goaltender Alexandar Georgiev has been solid, but the Avalanche will need to improve their power play, which has converted just 10% of opportunities in the series. The potential return of captain Gabriel Landeskog, who has been sidelined with a long-term injury, could provide a significant boost to the team.

Key Players to Watch:

Dallas Stars:

  • Jason Robertson: The dynamic forward has been a consistent offensive threat and will look to add to his playoff tally.
  • Jake Oettinger: The goaltender has been a rock for Dallas, with a .909 save percentage in the series.
  • Roope Hintz: Hintz’s speed and playmaking ability make him a key player in the Stars’ attack.

Colorado Avalanche:

  • Nathan MacKinnon: The superstar center has been the Avalanche’s most dangerous player, leading the team in points this series.
  • Cale Makar: The Norris Trophy-winning defenseman will be crucial in generating offense from the blue line.
  • Alexandar Georgiev: The goaltender will need to deliver a standout performance to keep Colorado in the series.

Matchup Analysis:

Offense vs. Defense:
Dallas’ balanced scoring and disciplined defense have been key to their success, while Colorado’s high-powered offense, led by MacKinnon and Makar, will look to break through the Stars’ structure. Special teams could play a pivotal role, with both teams needing to capitalize on power-play opportunities.

Momentum:
The Stars enter Game 4 with confidence after their Game 3 victory, while the Avalanche will be desperate to bounce back and avoid falling into a 3-1 hole. Colorado’s home-ice advantage and the energy of the Ball Arena crowd could be a factor.

Physicality:
This series has been marked by intense physical play, with both teams battling hard for every inch of ice. Expect another gritty and hard-fought game.

Game Odds

Dallas Stars                                         6.5

Colorado Avalanche                       – 185

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, April 25, 2025

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