Stars Rally, Rantanen Hat Trick Knocks Out Avs

The Dallas Stars overcame a 2-0 deficit in the third period to defeat the Colorado Avalanche 4-2 in Game 7, advancing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Former Avalanche star Mikko Rantanen scored a natural hat trick in the third period, including an empty-net goal, making him the first NHL player to achieve this feat in a Game 7. Rantanen’s performance, following his trade from Colorado earlier in the season, highlighted the Avalanche's controversial personnel decision. Colorado’s power play faltered, and key players underperformed at crucial moments, contributing to their elimination. Nathan MacKinnon’s three-point effort in Game 6 had forced the decisive game, but it was not enough to save his team. The series is regarded as one of the most dramatic in recent NHL history, with Rantanen’s heroics as a defining highlight.