The Dallas Stars may have a key forward back for Game 3 of the Western Conference Final. They may not. Roope Hintz‘s status for Game is to be determined, but the forward did travel with the team to Edmonton.
Hintz Game-Time Decision
Game-time decision, per Pete DeBoer
No changes for Oilers https://t.co/FPiDf0LeNM
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) May 25, 2025
Hintz was injured in the Stars’ Game 2 loss on Friday night. The centre was slashed on the left foot by Darnell Nurse after Hnitz had cross-checked Nurse in front of the net. Nurse was given a major penalty at first, but after a review, only a minor was given.
The play and resulting plenalty has created tensions for the remainder of this series. Many have questioned why no major was given. Stars head coach Peter DeBoer suggested that the call would have been different had it been Connor McDavid who was injured.
Crucial Game 3 Awaits
Regardless of whether or not Hintz plays, Game 3 is a big one for both teams. The Stars will be looking to slow down the Edmonton Oilers‘ momentum on home ice, where they are 4-1 this postseason.
If Hintz is unable to play, the Stars will need to shuffle their lines to replace their top-line centre. Matt Duchene or Wyatt Johnson could jump to the top-line centre position.
Looking Ahead
Hintz’s injury could have ramifications beyond Game 3. Hintz could not put any weight on his leg after Game 2, suggesting the injury is more serious that initially thought. If Hintz does not play in Game 3, that will give an indication as to where his injury is at. It is possible he will not be able to play in Game 5 and so on. There is a chance the Stars do not have Hintz for the remainder of the playoffs.
It is important to remember that NHL teams tend to keep the full details of a player’s injury secret until the series is over. As such, we are likely not going to know the extend of Hintz’s injury until this series ends. Until then, we will have to go off what information we are provided. Of course, Hintz receiving the green light to play will be a positive indication.
Main Photo: Jerome Miron- Imagn Images
