Collapse in Second Period Dooms Dallas
The Dallas Stars' unbeaten start to the season came to a crashing halt on Thursday night, as they dropped a 5-3 decision to the visiting Vancouver Canucks at the American Airlines Center.
After racing out to a 2-0 lead in the first period, the Stars fell victim to a disastrous second frame that saw the Canucks score three goals in a span of just 3:26 to seize control of the game.
"It's nothing we haven't seen before, but I think we have to do a better job of weathering the storm," said Stars defenseman Thomas Harley, whose turnover late in the second period led to the go-ahead goal by Conor Garland.
Offensive Struggles and Defensive Lapses
The Stars were unable to maintain the offensive pressure that had powered them to a 3-0 start. They managed just one shot on goal during a critical stretch in the second period as the Canucks stormed back.
Goaltender Casey DeSmith, making his first start of the season, struggled to contain the Canucks' attack, allowing five goals on 27 shots. The normally stout Stars defense also uncharacteristically broke down, leading to several odd-man rushes and high-quality scoring chances for the visitors.
"We have to do a better job of managing the game," said Stars captain Jamie Benn. "We got away from our structure and discipline, and that allowed them to take over."
Looking Ahead
The loss drops the Stars to 3-1-0 on the season, still tied for second place in the Western Conference. They'll look to bounce back on Saturday when they visit the St. Louis Blues.
"It's a long season, and we know there will be ups and downs," said head coach Pete DeBoer. "The key is how we respond to this setback. I have no doubt our guys will be ready to go on Saturday."
TL;DR
- The Dallas Stars suffered their first loss of the season, falling 5-3 to the Vancouver Canucks
- A disastrous second period saw the Canucks score three quick goals to erase the Stars' early 2-0 lead
- Defensive lapses and goaltending struggles plagued the Stars, who were unable to regain control of the game
- The Stars remain tied for second in the Western Conference and will look to bounce back on Saturday against the St. Louis Blues