Minnesota Wild defenceman Quinn Hughes scored twice as his team defeated the Dallas Stars 5-2 in Game 6, advancing to the second round of the playoffs for the first time since 2015.

Wild End Decade-Long Drought

Hughes led Minnesota to its first playoff series victory in 11 years, scoring twice in the Wild’s 5-2 victory over the Dallas Stars on Thursday night. The Wild will now advance to the second round, where they will face the Presidents Trophy winner, the Colorado Avalanche.

Avalanche Await

The Colorado Avalanche have been resting since sweeping the Los Angeles Kings on Sunday, giving them ample time to prepare for the upcoming series. This marks the first time in 10 attempts since 2015 that the Wild have won a playoff series.

Hughes' Decisive Performance

Hughes broke a tie midway through the third period with a crucial goal, and Matt Boldy sealed the victory with his team-leading fifth and sixth goals of the series into empty nets. Vladimir Tarasenko also contributed with a goal, while Jesper Wallstedt made 22 saves to secure the win.

Key Goals and Assists

Hughes, acquired from Vancouver in December in a franchise-altering trade, scored his second goal of the game on a shot that deflected off a Dallas defenceman and past the goalie. He also added an assist, demonstrating his offensive capabilities.

Dominant Even-Strength Play

All three of Minnesota’s goals came at full strength, highlighting their dominance in even-strength play. The Wild outscored Dallas 17-5 at even strength throughout the series, including a 12-4 advantage at five-on-five.

Stars' Goals

Wyatt Johnston and Mavrik Bourque scored for Dallas. Johnston’s power-play goal tied him for the league-high with his 10th of the postseason, while Bourque capitalized on a fortunate bounce.

Tarasenko responded just 54 seconds later for Minnesota, scoring his 50th career postseason goal. The Wild’s victory represents a significant milestone for the franchise as they prepare to face the Avalanche.