The Dallas Stars and Colorado Avalanche face off once again in the Stanley Cup playoffs, reigniting their fierce rivalry. Coming into this series, the Stars aim to repeat last season's success, where Matt Duchene's double-overtime goal eliminated the Avalanche in Game 6 of the second round. The stakes are high as predictions from experts suggest a tough matchup ahead. Tyler Seguin's anticipated return alongside Miro Heiskanen potentially bolstering the Stars' lineup could tip the scales, though the team is also wary of star players Nathan MacKinnon and Cale Makar on the Avalanche side.

Expert predictions indicate a closely contested series, with all signs pointing towards a seven-game showdown. While the Stars boast one of the best forward groups and a superior goalie, the Avalanche's formidable talent cannot be underestimated. Following this matchup, the Stars could face the Winnipeg Jets, who many believe to be a challenging opponent, especially with Connor Hellebuyck in goal. The outcome of this series could significantly influence the playoff trajectory for Dallas.

The Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars are set for an intense playoff series, with both teams showcasing elite talent. The Avalanche, buoyed by potential returns from key players like Gabriel Landeskog, face a Stars squad that has struggled with injuries, particularly to defenseman Miro Heiskanen. While the Avalanche possess a robust forward line led by Nathan MacKinnon and Mikko Rantanen, Dallas counters with its own firepower including Jason Robertson and Tyler Seguin. The goaltending matchup is pivotal; Jake Oettinger’s playoff experience contrasts with Mackenzie Blackwood’s lack of playoff games. Special teams may also play a crucial role, as Colorado boasts a superior power play while Dallas excels in penalty killing. Insights suggest that the Avalanche, despite some inconsistencies this season, have the edge in momentum heading into the series.

The Dallas Stars have hit a rough patch, concluding the regular season with their longest losing streak in over a decade. Despite Tyler Seguin's return, they faltered against the Nashville Predators, suffering a 5-1 defeat. Coach Pete DeBoer opted to rest key players before the playoffs, but their defensive issues were exposed, especially during a dismal first period where they surrendered three goals in quick succession. With the playoffs against the Colorado Avalanche looming, the Stars face mounting pressure not only to conclude their losing streak but to perform at their best amidst injuries that may hinder their progress.

Dallas Stars' Miro Heiskanen is not expected to play in Game 1 of the playoffs, but there is hope for his return during the series. Meanwhile, Thomas Harley and Esa Lindell were healthy scratches, indicating confidence in their condition. Kris Knoblauch of the Edmonton Oilers confirmed that Mattias Ekholm will sit out the first round, while Trent Frederic's status remains uncertain for Game 1. Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman are expected to be ready, but Connor McDavid was rested as a precaution. Quinton Byfield left a previous game with an injury, while the Minnesota Wild's Jared Spurgeon shows signs of recovery.

In the latest NHL updates, several players are nearing returns as the playoffs loom. Colorado Avalanche forward Gabriel Landeskog has been sent to the AHL for conditioning, while Dallas Stars defenseman Miro Heiskanen is making progress but remains unconfirmed for a return. Tyler Seguin's potential stint in the AHL is under discussion, but coach Pete DeBoer is uncertain about its timing.

Edmonton Oilers’ Connor McDavid has returned after an eight-game absence due to a lower-body injury, although several teammates, including Leon Draisaitl, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, and Evander Kane were sidelined. Oilers coach Kris Knoblauch expects key players to rejoin before the playoffs begin. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Wild welcomed back Kirill Kaprizov and Joel Eriksson Ek from the IR, both crucial for their playoff push.

The Ottawa Senators are managing their roster carefully, with Brady Tkachuk's playoff status still in question due to injury. The Tampa Bay Lightning had Jake Guentzel scratch for family reasons, and Washington Capitals coach Spencer Carbery is monitoring the health of Logan Thompson and Aliaksei Protas, both of whom are expected to be back soon.