The upcoming NHL matchup between the Minnesota Wild (40-25-5) and the Dallas Stars (44-21-4) on Monday, March 24, 2025, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas, is set to be a thrilling contest between two Central Division powerhouses. Both teams are jockeying for playoff positioning, with the Stars aiming to solidify their hold on second place in the division and the Wild looking to climb higher in the standings.
Team Overview
Minnesota Wild
- Record: 40-25-5 (85 points)
- Central Division Standing: 4th
- Recent Form: 6-3-1 in their last 10 games
- Road Record: 18-14-3
The Wild are riding a three-game winning streak, including a dominant 4-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres in their last outing. Minnesota has been solid defensively, allowing just 1.7 goals per game over their last 10 contests, which ranks among the best in the league during that span. Offensively, they are led by Matt Boldy, who has tallied 23 goals and 37 assists, and Marco Rossi, who has contributed 22 goals and 32 assists. Goaltender Filip Gustavsson has been a key factor in their recent success, boasting a 2.48 goals-against average (GAA) and a .917 save percentage this season.
Dallas Stars
- Record: 44-21-4 (92 points)
- Central Division Standing: 2nd
- Recent Form: 6-2-2 in their last 10 games
- Home Record: 21-10-2
The Stars are coming off a dramatic 3-2 overtime win against the Philadelphia Flyers, with defenseman Thomas Harley scoring twice, including the game-winner. Dallas has been one of the most balanced teams in the league, averaging 3.36 goals per game (5th in the NHL) while allowing just 2.61 goals per game (5th in the NHL). Their offense is powered by Jason Robertson, who has recorded 29 goals and 39 assists, and Matt Duchene, who leads the team with 26 goals and 44 assists. Goaltender Jake Oettinger has been a rock in net, with a 2.54 GAA and a .906 save percentage.
Key Players to Watch
Minnesota Wild
- Matt Boldy: The team’s leading scorer with 60 points, Boldy is a dynamic playmaker who can change the game with his creativity.
- Marco Rossi: A rising star, Rossi has been consistent all season and is a key contributor to the Wild’s offense.
- Filip Gustavsson: The goaltender has been in excellent form, giving the Wild a chance to win every night.
Dallas Stars
- Jason Robertson: A consistent offensive force, Robertson is a threat to score or set up a goal every time he’s on the ice.
- Matt Duchene: The veteran forward has been a key playmaker for the Stars, leading the team in points.
- Jake Oettinger: One of the league’s top young goaltenders, Oettinger has the ability to steal games for Dallas.
Head-to-Head
This is the third meeting between these teams this season. The season series is tied 1-1, with the Wild winning the most recent matchup 3-2 in overtime. Historically, the Stars have had the upper hand, going 8-1-1 in their last 10 games against Minnesota.
Keys to Victory
Minnesota Wild
- Defensive Discipline: The Wild need to maintain their recent defensive form and limit Dallas’ high-powered offense.
- Special Teams: Minnesota must capitalize on power-play opportunities and avoid penalties, as Dallas has a strong penalty kill.
- Goaltending: Filip Gustavsson will need to be sharp to keep the Stars’ top scorers in check.
Dallas Stars
- Home-Ice Advantage: The Stars have been dominant at home and need to use the crowd’s energy to their advantage.
- Offensive Depth: Dallas’ secondary scorers, like Wyatt Johnston and Thomas Harley, must continue to contribute.
- Control the Pace: The Stars should dictate the tempo and force the Wild to play on their heels.
