Rantanen's Overtime Hat Trick Lifts Stars Past Bruins 3-2

Overtime Decider

The Dallas Stars escaped a tight contest against the visiting Boston Bruins on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at American Airlines Center. The final score was 3-2 in favor of the home team, secured by Mikko Rantanen, who recorded a hat trick. The attendance at the venue was 18,532 fans. This victory was crucial for the Stars, who trailed for much of the game before pulling ahead in the final moments of regulation and then securing the win in overtime.

Period Breakdown

The Bruins struck first in the opening period, taking a 1-0 lead. Matthew Poitras scored his fourth goal of the season on a snap shot, assisted by Frederic Brunet and Tanner Jeannot. The Stars responded in the second period with Mikko Rantanen tying the game 1-1. His goal, his third of the season, was assisted by Jason Robertson. However, Boston regained the lead shortly after, with James Hagens scoring his third goal of the season on a tip-in. Casey Mittelstadt and Nikita Zadorov provided the assists for that play, making the score 2-1 in favor of the visitors.

Late Surge and Overtime

The momentum shifted in the third period when Mikko Rantanen found the back of the net again to tie the game at 2-2. This was his fourth goal of the season, assisted by Roope Hintz and Thomas Harley. The game remained deadlocked through the end of regulation, forcing an overtime period. In the extra frame, Rantanen delivered the decisive blow. He scored his fifth goal of the season on a backhand, assisted by Miro Heiskanen and Jason Robertson, to give the Stars a 3-2 victory.

Statistical Impact

Mikko Rantanen was the standout performer for Dallas, recording three goals and three points. Jason Robertson also had a strong game, contributing two assists. For the Boston Bruins, Matthew Poitras scored the only goal for his team and added one point. Nikita Zadorov provided one assist. Following this game, the Dallas Stars improved their record to 5-3-1 with 11 points, while the Boston Bruins dropped to 7-2-1 with 15 points.

Sources

ESPN