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NHL Match Previews 17/05/25

With the stakes higher than ever, Saturday’s NHL slate promises intensity, grit, and a battle for survival. As we head into Game 6 of the Western Conference second-round clash between the Winnipeg Jets and Dallas Stars, all eyes are on whether the Jets can claw their way back from the brink or if the Stars will finally seal the deal in front of a home crowd. The Jets proved in Game 5 that they won’t roll over, delivering a dominant 4-0 shutout on home ice to stave off elimination and force a trip back to Dallas. Now, the series shifts south once more, where the Stars look to harness the energy of their fans to punch their ticket to the next round.

This is a matchup between a Presidents’ Trophy-winning powerhouse and a seasoned playoff contender that’s already survived one near-death experience. The physicality is rising, tempers are flaring, and the margin for error has vanished. This is classic playoff hockey — full of desperation, momentum swings, and individual brilliance. Let’s break down the matchup and deliver our America Bet predictions for bettors and fans alike.

Winnipeg Jets at Dallas Stars

Match Info

  • Competition: NHL Western Conference Second Round – Game 6
  • Date & Time: Saturday 17 May 2025, 20:00 EST / Sunday 18 May 2025, 01:00 BST
  • Venue: American Airlines Center, Dallas, USA

Winnipeg Jets

With their backs against the wall, the Jets delivered one of their finest performances of the postseason in Game 5. Dominating puck possession and neutralising the Stars’ attack, Winnipeg showed why they topped the league in the regular season. Connor Hellebuyck turned in a masterclass between the pipes, recording his second shutout of the series and reminding everyone why he’s a favourite for the Vezina Trophy.

Up front, Nikolaj Ehlers led the offensive charge with two goals, while Kyle Connor and his linemates imposed their will in all three zones. The Jets’ ability to grind out results in high-pressure situations was already proven in their comeback win over St. Louis, and this latest display only further highlights their never-say-die attitude. With the momentum on their side and a reputation for rallying late, Winnipeg is poised to make things uncomfortable for the Stars once more.

Dallas Stars

The Stars missed their first chance to close out the series in Game 5, struggling to generate offence and getting outworked in crucial areas. Despite holding a 3-2 series lead, there’s a clear sense of unease around Dallas heading into Game 6. They’ll be counting on their home-ice advantage and experienced core to deliver a bounce-back performance.

Matt Duchene and company know the danger of letting a team like Winnipeg linger. Although Dallas stole Game 1 on the road and held a commanding lead earlier in the series, their inability to shut the door has opened the door for doubt. Coach Pete DeBoer will be urging his squad to play with urgency and discipline, especially after a penalty-heavy Game 5. For the Stars, the mission is simple: win now, or risk everything in a do-or-die Game 7.

America Bet Match Winner Prediction

Winnipeg Jets to win

Momentum is everything in the playoffs, and right now, Winnipeg has it. With Hellebuyck in top form and the Jets playing with the hunger of a team that refuses to be eliminated, they’re primed to snatch another win on the road. Dallas may be at home, but Winnipeg has shown it can thrive under pressure — and it thrives in hostile environments.

America Bet Score Prediction

Winnipeg Jets 3 – 2 Dallas Stars

Expect another tight, physical contest, but the Jets’ ability to strike in key moments and shut down the Stars’ offence could be the difference. A low-scoring affair feels likely, with the Jets edging it late or in OT.

America Bet Betting Tips

  • Winnipeg Jets to win
  • Under 5.5 total goals
  • Connor Hellebuyck to record over 30 saves
  • Nikolaj Ehlers anytime goalscorer
  • Jets to score first
  • Jets to win by exactly 1 goal
  • Dallas Stars under 2.5 goals
  • Game to go to overtime
  • Both teams to score in the 1st period – No
  • Exact score: Winnipeg 3-2
Jonnie Kennie
Jonnie Kennie
Jonn started out his punting career from the tender age of 22. A self confessed sports nut, he is the first person we have come across who can cover any sport and does not admit to preferring one sport over the other or having a "main sport".

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