Hellebuyck Answers with a Stellar Performance and Silences the Stars
In the second game of the Western Conference semi-final series, the Winnipeg Jets achieved a resounding victory over the Dallas Stars with a score of 4-0. The fans, present in the stadium, chanted “M-V-P” in recognition of the outstanding performance of their goalkeeper, Connor Hellebuyck.
It means a lot. I love this fanbase. I love this city.
Connor Hellebuyck
Hellebuyck stopped 21 shots, achieving his first playoff shutout since 2021 and the fourth of his postseason career. In the regular season, he led the NHL with eight shutouts, which led him to be a finalist for the Hart Trophy as the league’s Most Valuable Player and for the Vezina Trophy, which he already won last season and in 2020.
Before this game, his postseason performance had not been as expected. Statistically, Hellebuyck was the goaltender with the worst numbers in the 2025 Stanley Cup playoffs, with a save percentage of .836 in four losses. However, the Jets’ confidence in their goaltender never wavered.
We trust him. Sometimes, too much. But he was incredible tonight.
Josh Morrissey
Jets coach Scott Arniel praised his goalie’s performance, calling it “fantastic.” The Jets took the lead in the first period with goals from Gabriel Vilardi and Nik Ehlers. Hellebuyck made nine saves in that first period.
He made some acrobatic saves tonight.
Scott Arniel
Dallas coach Peter DeBoer acknowledged Hellebuyck’s excellent performance, stating that he was a key factor in the outcome of the game.
It was good. It was really good.
Peter DeBoer
After the game, Hellebuyck expressed his satisfaction at having regained his best level, and was optimistic about the rest of the series.
Now everything is in its place. We break it down to rebuild it. I like where it is. I like how the team is playing. I’m very excited about the series. It’s been fun.
Connor Hellebuyck
The series now moves to Dallas for Game 3. Hellebuyck struggled in all three games against St. Louis, and the Jets know they must improve their performance on the road.
We’re still playing hockey and it’s May. That’s fun. It’s the best time of year, because you’ve honed your game all year.
Connor Hellebuyck
The Jets acknowledge that they must improve their away game and learn from previous matches.
It’s going to be a difficult building. They took away our home-ice advantage by winning the first game.
Scott Arniel
