Jets' road playoff skid deepens after Game 4 loss

The Winnipeg Jets are on the verge of elimination following their Game 4 loss to the Dallas Stars, despite a dominant regular-season road record. The Jets have now lost nine consecutive road playoff games, along with Connor Hellebuyck underperforming and the offense falling short. The team must find answers quickly to stay alive in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Jets' road playoff skid deepens after Game 4 loss
Dallas Stars celebrates scoring a goal against the Winnipeg Jets during the first period of Game Three (Credit: Getty Image)
The Jets’ struggles away from home remain a major concern, as Tuesday's 3-1 defeat to the Stars marks their ninth straight road loss in the playoffs since 2023. Five of those have come this year, despite Winnipeg boasting the NHL's best road record during the regular season.That regular-season success has not translated to the postseason. The team is now on the brink of elimination. Trailing 3-1 in the best-of-seven Western Conference Second Round. Game 5 shifts back to Winnipeg. Also where the Jets have played far better, but to win the series, at least one road victory is required.

Hellebuyck is unable to outshine Oettinger

2025 NHL Playoffs - Game 4: Dallas Stars vs. Winnipeg Jets
Connor Hellebuyck, a finalist for both the Vezina and Hart trophies. He has not looked like his regular-season self on the road., in five road playoff games. He holds a 5.84 goals-against average and a .793 save percentage.The Jets generated 72 shot attempts and outshot Dallas 32-24, but scored just once. Their attack looked sharp in stretches, particularly early in the game, but lacked finish. Missed chances and well-timed saves from Oettinger derailed their momentum repeatedly.

Home edge offers one final lifeline

Dallas Stars celebrates scoring a goal against the Winnipeg Jets during the first period of Game Three
Dallas Stars celebrates scoring a goal against the Winnipeg Jets during the first period of Game Three (Credit: Getty Image)
The series now returns to Winnipeg, where the Jets are 5-1 in the playoffs. Hellebuyck has looked like a different goalie at Canada Life Centre, with a sub-2.00 goals-against average and a shutout.But that home comfort won’t be enough if the team can’t break the road curse. The Jets will have to force a Game 6 in Dallas and, eventually, win there to advance. That’s the reality of their situation.Read more: "Not Just Any Coach": Pittsburgh Penguins’ coaching search signals strategic shift ahead

Time running out for Winnipeg

The Jets remain alive, but barely. A solid home record gives them hope, yet it doesn’t hide their persistent road issues. Hellebuyck needs support, and the offense must deliver. Without improvement, Winnipeg’s playoff run is nearing its end; not with a fight, but with familiar frustrations on the road.

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