Pete DeBoer on Stars' Game 7 Comeback Win vs. Avalanche & Playoff Run

Resilience in Game 7

• 💡 Pete DeBoer expressed unwavering belief in his team, stating he never felt they would lose even when down 2-0 in the third period.
• 🚀 The team's ability to respond to adversity and silence doubters was highlighted as a key characteristic.
• 🏆 DeBoer shared the rarity of his experience, having been part of only one other similar comeback in a Game 7, calling it a "memory for a lifetime."

Jake Oettinger's Performance

• 🌟 Jake Oettinger is praised for his crucial saves, described as bending but not breaking and having a special ability to raise his game at critical moments.
• 🎯 His timely saves, particularly the one with the goalie pulled, were instrumental in keeping the Stars in the game.
• ✅ DeBoer noted that Oettinger recognized the team was back in the game and shut the door, despite perhaps wanting to have back the second goal allowed.

Defensive Stand and Key Players

• 🛡️ The defense, particularly without Miro Heiskanen, is credited as the MVP of the series, with DeBoer acknowledging their gritty, defensive effort.
• 🏒 Thomas Harley and the other five defensemen battled hard, making it difficult for the Avalanche to generate offense.
• 🚫 The Stars limited the Avalanche to two goals, one on a penalty kill and one on a six-on-five, while shutting down their five-on-five play and rush chances.

Jake Guentzel's Impact

• 🎯 Jake Guentzel is highlighted for taking over the series in the last three to four games, deciding they would not go home.
• 📈 His performance was described as special, especially considering the high level of competition against one of the top teams in the world.
• 🤝 DeBoer believes Guentzel's motivation to make an impact against his former team played a role in his improved play.

Team's Playoff Mentality

• 💪 Despite missing key players like Heiskanen and Robertson, the team found a way to win by playing differently, grinding out victories instead of relying solely on outscoring opponents.
• 🌟 DeBoer believes there is "something special going on" with the team, suggesting they are just getting started despite winning the first round.
• 🏆 The coach emphasized the importance of the home crowd in Game 7, stating they likely wouldn't have won without the energy from the Dallas fans.

Looking Ahead

• ❓ DeBoer considers both Heiskanen and Robertson day-to-day, with a belief they will play in the second round, though the exact timing depends on the series start.
• 🍻 In a lighthearted moment, DeBoer humorously stated he hadn't had a beer yet but was looking forward to one after the exhausting experience of Game 7.