Stars Drop First Game of Road Trip to Ducks, 2-1

The Dallas Stars lost 2-1 to the Anaheim Ducks, a result that underscores the strength of their recent five-game winning streak and their impressive 15-4-1 run. Forward Sam Steel, who assisted on the Stars’ lone goal, acknowledged the Ducks’ hard work and the Stars’ own struggles with turnovers, also praising Ducks goalie John Gibson’s performance.

Despite the loss, the Stars had a decent showing in some areas. While Anaheim outshot them 28-27, Dallas had more scoring chances and periods of strong play. The first period saw the Stars generating good chances but being denied by Gibson. A defensive miscue by Colin Blackwell led to Anaheim’s first goal late in the period.

Blackwell took responsibility for the loss, citing his turnover on the first goal and his presence on the ice for all three Anaheim goals. The Stars rallied in the third period, with Blackwell scoring to tie the game after a strong penalty kill. However, another giveaway shortly after led to Anaheim’s game-winning goal, deflected in by Trevor Zegras.

Coach Pete DeBoer noted that Anaheim capitalized on the Stars’ mistakes, while the Stars failed to convert on Anaheim’s errors. He admitted the team’s execution wasn’t ideal but felt they created enough scoring opportunities to win. Oettinger took his first career loss against Anaheim.

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