Wyatt Johnston nets fastest playoff goal for Dallas Stars in history

In the United States, the Dallas Stars achieved a remarkable feat during Game 5 of their Western Conference playoff series against the Colorado Avalanche on April 28, 2025. Wyatt Johnston scored just 9 seconds into the game, marking the fastest goal ever recorded at the beginning of a playoff game for the franchise. This goal was scored immediately after the opening faceoff and set the tone for the match, leading to a 6-2 victory for the Stars, giving them a 3-2 lead in the playoff series. Johnston's exciting moment marked his first-ever goal in the playoffs and thrust him into the spotlight as he joined a prestigious group of only eight players in NHL history to score within the first nine seconds of a playoff game. The previous record for the Dallas Stars was held by Jeff Halpern, who scored a goal at 24 seconds during a playoff contest against the Vancouver Canucks back in 2007. The historic goal showcased Johnston's quick reflexes and the strategic play of the Stars right from the beginning. In addition to his record-setting goal, Johnston exhibited his offensive prowess by contributing another goal and providing an assist during the game, solidifying his vital role in the Stars' offense. The Dallas Stars led much of the game and maintained control despite some pushes from the Avalanche, who made efforts to close the gap in the second period with goals from Artturi Lehkonen and Nathan MacKinnon. Overall, the victory was significant for Dallas, providing momentum as they approached the pivotal Game 6 of the series against Colorado. The Stars' goalie, Jake Oettinger, also stood tall in net, making 27 saves, while the Avalanche's goaltending duo of Mackenzie Blackwood and Scott Wedgewood struggled to contain the Stars' offensive onslaught. Johnston's early goal galvanized the team and served as a crucial turning point in their playoff journey.