Stars breeze past Predators 5-1 to extend lead in Central Division

The Dallas Stars comfortably defeated Nashville Predators 5-1 on Monday night.

TEXAS… Y'ALL READY FOR SOME PLAYOFF HOCKEY? 🤠

The @DallasStars are headed to the #StanleyCup Playoffs! pic.twitter.com/cyc1QxGwBw

— NHL (@NHL) April 4, 2023

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Roope Hintz opened the scoring 4:21 into the first period, before a total rout unraveled in the second and third. Colin Miller doubled the lead before Joe Pavelski power play strike made it 3-0. Jason Robertson and Tylor Seguin both scored, before Cal Foote got on the scoresheet for Nashville.

The Predators had their chances as the first period was pretty tied up despite Dallas snatching a 1-0 lead. A lack of efficiency in the second and third period allowed the Predators to pounce and secure a comfortable victory.

The defeat is a major blow to Nashville’s hopes of postseason spot, while Dallas safely secure a playoff place.

Next up on the road for the Predators is a trip to Las Vegas on Tuesday, while the Stars go to face the Flyers in Philadelphia on Thursday.