Imagine this: the clock is ticking down, the score is tied, and the entire arena is on the edge of their seats. Then, in a heart-stopping moment, Dallas defenseman Vladislav Kolyachonok unleashes a long, low wrist shot that finds the back of the net with just 5:44 left in the game. That’s the kind of drama that defined the Dallas Stars’ 3-2 victory over the Seattle Kraken on November 26, 2025. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing—this wasn’t just any goal; it was Kolyachonok’s first of the season, and it came at a moment when the Kraken were pushing hard for the win.
The right-handed Kolyachonok’s shot slipped past Kraken goalie Joey Daccord, who had been solid throughout the night, stopping 18 shots. For the Stars, this win was part of a larger narrative: they’re on fire. Coming off an 8-3 rout in Edmonton the night before, Dallas snagged seven out of eight possible points on their four-game road trip. At 15-5-4, they’re sitting comfortably in second place in the NHL, just five points behind the league-leading Colorado.
But let’s not forget the Kraken. Brandon Montour and Vince Dunn both found the net for Seattle, with Dunn’s goal coming just 19 seconds into the third period to tie the game at 2. And this is the part most people miss—despite the loss, the Kraken showed resilience, especially after a tough 1-0 shootout defeat to the New York Islanders just days earlier.
The game’s momentum swung back and forth like a pendulum. Roope Hintz opened the scoring for Dallas at 5:52 in the first period, only for Montour to even it up at 9:06. Esa Lindell then put the Stars back in front early in the second, but Dunn’s quick strike in the third set the stage for Kolyachonok’s heroics.
Here’s the controversial question: Did the Kraken’s fatigue from back-to-back games play a bigger role in their loss than we’re giving credit for? Or was it simply a case of the Stars’ depth and momentum proving too much to handle? Let’s debate that in the comments.
Looking ahead, the Stars return home to host Utah on Friday night, while the Kraken will look to bounce back against Edmonton on Saturday. One thing’s for sure—this game was a reminder of why hockey is the most unpredictable and thrilling sport out there. What did you think of the match? Who impressed you the most, and who do you think needs to step up? Let’s hear your thoughts!
