Mikael Granlund Scores First Playoff Hat Trick as Stars Take 3-0 Series Lead Over Jets

Mikael Granlund scored his first career playoff hat trick, leading the Dallas Stars to a 3-1 victory over the Winnipeg Jets in Game 4 of the second-round NHL playoffs, giving Dallas a 3-1 series lead. Jake Oettinger made 31 saves to help preserve the win, while Mikko Rantanen assisted on Granlund's go-ahead goal, extending his NHL-leading playoff points total to 19. Granlund's performance included a power-play goal and key plays that broke up Winnipeg rushes and helped the Stars take control of the game. The Jets have now lost nine consecutive road playoff games, continuing their struggles away from home this postseason. Granlund, who was acquired mid-season from San Jose, had scored only one goal in the first 10 playoff games but erupted with three goals in this critical contest. The Stars are now poised to advance to the Western Conference final for the third consecutive year, with Game 5 scheduled in Winnipeg.