Stars hold off Blue Jackets with late flurry of goals at American Airlines Center

First-Period Foundation

The Dallas Stars established an early lead on Saturday, October 31, 2026, at the American Airlines Center, defeating the visiting Columbus Blue Jackets 3-1. The home team dominated the opening frame, scoring two unanswered goals to set the tone for the remainder of the contest.

Mikko Rantanen opened the scoring with a snap shot, assisted by Wyatt Johnston and Jason Robertson, putting the Stars ahead 1-0. Shortly after, Thomas Harley extended the lead with his first goal of the season, assisted by Arttu Hyry and Miro Heiskanen. The Stars finished the first period with a 2-0 advantage, leaving Columbus struggling to find their rhythm on the road.

Stalled Middle Frame

The second period was defined by defensive intensity rather than offensive production, as neither team managed to add to the scoreboard. The score remained 2-0 in favor of Dallas heading into the final intermission. This deadlock allowed the Stars to maintain their momentum while limiting the Blue Jackets to a single scoring threat throughout the middle third.

The lack of goals in the second period highlighted the tight defensive play from both rosters, setting the stage for a decisive third-period battle where both teams would find the back of the net.

Decisive Third Period

The game’s turning point arrived in the third period, where both teams exchanged goals before Dallas secured the victory. Damon Severson broke the second-period scoreless tie for Columbus, scoring his second goal of the season with assists from Zach Werenski and Kent Johnson. The Blue Jackets pulled within one goal, making the final minutes tense.

However, Arttu Hyry responded with his fourth goal of the season, assisted by Jamie Benn and Miro Heiskanen, to restore the Stars' two-goal lead. Hyry’s effort proved crucial, as the Stars held on to close out the game 3-1.

Post-Game Records

The victory improves the Dallas Stars' record to 8-5-1, accumulating 17 points in the standings. Miro Heiskanen was instrumental for Dallas, recording two assists, while Arttu Hyry contributed one goal and two points. For the Columbus Blue Jackets, the loss drops their record to 5-7-0, with 10 points.

Damon Severson led the team with one goal and one point, while Kent Johnson added an assist. The game drew a crowd of 18,532 at the American Airlines Center, marking a significant home win for the Stars as they continue their season.

Sources

ESPN