NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Nashville Predators defeated the Dallas Stars 5-1, concluding a disappointing season for Nashville while adding to Dallas`s struggles as they head into the playoffs.
Ryan O’Reilly of the Predators contributed a goal and two assists. Jordan Oesterle, Jonathan Marchessault, Jakub Vrana, and Justin Barron also scored for Nashville. Goalie Juuse Saros stopped 29 shots, and Filip Forsberg assisted on two goals.
For the Stars, Mason Marchment scored their only goal, and Jake Oettinger, who played the first two periods, made 17 saves. The Stars` regular season ended with a seven-game winless streak. Oettinger was replaced in the third period by Casey DeSmith, who made 12 saves.
Adding to the Stars` concerns, star player Jason Robertson sustained a lower-body injury in the second period and did not return to the game, worsening their situation before the playoffs.
Robertson was hurt after a collision with Nashville`s Michael McCarron. Reports indicate Robertson left the arena with a knee brace.
Stars coach Peter DeBoer expressed disappointment about Robertson`s injury, especially since resting players was intended to prevent such issues. He called it a “tough night.”
The Dallas Stars are set to compete against the Colorado Avalanche in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
