The NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs burst into life with a stunning result in Texas, as Minnesota Wild dismantled Dallas Stars 6–1 in Game 1 of their Western Conference first-round series.

The standout performers were Matt Boldy and Joel Eriksson Ek, each delivering two goals and an assist in a dominant display that left the home crowd in disbelief. It was a ruthless, clinical performance from Minnesota, who wasted no time in seizing control of the series.

Over in the Eastern Conference, Carolina Hurricanes avoided any early drama. Backstopped by a solid performance from Frederik Andersen, who made 22 saves, they secured a composed 2–0 victory over Ottawa Senators to take the series lead.

But the night’s most intense battle unfolded on the ice in Pittsburgh, where a classic rivalry was reignited between Pittsburgh Penguins and Philadelphia Flyers.

Pittsburgh ultimately fell 3–2, but not without a fight. The Penguins pushed until the final moments, pulling their goaltender and clawing one back with just a minute remaining.