The Dallas Stars made a notable goaltending change during Game 4 against the Colorado Avalanche on Saturday. Following the second period, with the team down 3-0, head coach Pete DeBoer decided to replace starting netminder Jake Oettinger with backup Casey DeSmith for the remainder of the game.
Oettinger`s performance wasn`t necessarily poor; he had stopped 31 of 34 shots faced through 40 minutes for a .912 save percentage. Initially, the reason for the swap was unclear, leading to speculation about injury or an attempt to spark the team.
However, after the game, which the Stars lost 4-0, DeBoer clarified that the move was strategic, intended to give Oettinger rest for the upcoming Game 5 and to provide Casey DeSmith with valuable playing time, stating the need for contributions from both goalies as the playoffs continue.
