Dallas (50-22-4) at Minnesota (41-29-7)
- When: Apr 6 2025, 3:00 PM
- Where: Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul, MN, USA
- TV: TNT
Stars vs Wild Preview & Prediction
Moneyline Favorite: Dallas -150 | Total: 5.5 Goals
The Dallas Stars are looking to bounce back from a rare loss as they head to Minnesota for a critical Sunday showdown with the Wild. After having their seven-game win streak halted by Pittsburgh in a 5-3 home loss, the Stars will be aiming to tighten things up defensively in a game that has major implications for playoff seeding.
Dallas Stars Outlook
Despite the setback, Dallas (50-22-4) remains firmly in the Central Division race, trailing Winnipeg by just four points. Saturday’s loss wasn’t due to a lack of effort from goaltender Casey DeSmith, who made 35 stops, or Evgenii Dadonov, who scored all three goals for the Stars in his second career hat trick. However, defensive miscues late in the third cost Dallas, as a breakdown led to the game-winner with under two minutes to go.
As one of the most balanced teams in the league, the Stars are expected to come out strong in this bounce-back spot. Look for the top line to reassert control early, and don’t be surprised if they press the pace given the Wild’s recent struggles.
Minnesota Wild Outlook
The Wild (41-29-7) limp back home after an 0-1-2 road trip and a four-game winless skid. They currently hold the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference, but that grip is loosening. Friday’s 3-1 loss to the Islanders was another frustrating performance where the Wild lacked urgency and execution, drawing criticism from their head coach.
Mats Zuccarello scored Minnesota’s lone goal and expressed frustration postgame — sentiments that reflect the team’s current mental state. Defenseman Jake Middleton left the game with an upper-body injury, and his absence could create further issues against Dallas’ depth and pressure.
Gambling Insights & Prediction
The Stars enter as -150 moneyline favorites with the total set at 5.5. Given the contrasting momentum of these two clubs — with Dallas still playing elite-level hockey despite the loss and Minnesota trending downward — this is a prime spot to back the favorite.
Score Prediction: Stars 4, Wild 2
Best Bet: Dallas on the moneyline at -150
Total: Over 5.5 Goals (-108)
Bonus Pick: Look for Jason Robertson to register at least one point, and consider Evgenii Dadonov to extend his scoring form with another goal.
Dallas should reassert dominance in this spot, especially with playoff positioning on the line and Minnesota’s recent slide continuing.
- NHL Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
