• Mikko Rantanen scores a hat trick and an assist in Game 7 against his former team, the Colorado Avalanche.
• The Dallas Stars defeat the Avalanche 4-2 in a comeback victory to win the first-round series.
• Rantanen's performance is hailed as a defining moment, solidifying his role as a key player for the Stars.

In a thrilling Game 7 of the NHL playoffs, the Dallas Stars defeated the Colorado Avalanche 4-2, with Mikko Rantanen playing a pivotal role. Traded to the Stars earlier in the season, Rantanen scored a hat trick and an assist against his former team, leading Dallas to a dramatic comeback victory. The win propels the Stars into the second round of the playoffs and marks a significant moment for Rantanen, who faced questions about his adjustment to his new team.

• What: Mikko Rantanen scored a hat trick and assisted on another goal, leading the Dallas Stars to a 4-2 comeback victory over the Colorado Avalanche in Game 7 of their first-round playoff series.
• Who: Key individuals include Mikko Rantanen, Jim Nill (Stars GM), Peter DeBoer (Stars head coach), Jake Oettinger (Stars goalie), Matt Duchene (Stars veteran), Cale Makar (Avalanche defenseman), and Nathan MacKinnon (Avalanche forward). Organizations involved are the Dallas Stars and the Colorado Avalanche.
• When: The game took place on Saturday night, with the article updated on May 5, 2025, at 10:26 am EDT. Rantanen was traded to Dallas on March 7.
• Where: The game was played in Dallas.

Rantanen's performance in Game 7 was a culmination of a challenging season that saw him traded twice. His ability to overcome the emotional difficulty of playing against his former teammates and deliver a dominant performance underscores his value to the Stars. The victory demonstrates the Stars' depth and resilience, particularly with key players like Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson out due to injury. The Avalanche's inability to contain Rantanen, despite their familiarity with his skills, highlights the impact of his presence on the ice and the Stars' improved chances in the playoffs.

Mikko put the team on his back.

Felt like we were in total control and then Mikko, credit to him, he made some amazing plays. He was a difference maker and he took over. I don’t know. I’m in shock to be honest with you. Felt like we were in complete control of the game the whole time and just lost it.

It’s emotional. They’re my brothers for sure.

The Dallas Stars' Game 7 victory over the Colorado Avalanche, fueled by Mikko Rantanen's exceptional performance, marks a significant milestone in their playoff journey. Rantanen's ability to overcome adversity and lead his new team to victory against his former team underscores his impact and potential for future success. As the Stars advance to the second round, the health of key players like Heiskanen and Robertson will be crucial in their pursuit of a championship.