Dallas Stars forward Joe Pavelski is having a postseason to remember in this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs.
On Saturday, the 17-year NHL veteran potted goal No. 8 of the playoffs to join some rare company. Pavelski tied Martin St. Louis (2014) and Johnny Bucyk (1974) for the most goals by a player 38 years or older in a single postseason.
Joe Pavelski 8th goal is tied for the most in an entire playoff year by a player at age 38+.
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) May 14, 2023
8 for Martin St. Louis, age 39 w/ 2014 NYR
8 for Johnny Bucyk, age 38 w/ 1974 BOS pic.twitter.com/EzbDrVayoz
Pavelski scored a power play goal 5:37 into the second period, giving him nine points in only seven playoff games.
The goal was career postseason tally No. 72 of Pavelski's career, moving him into a tie with Washington Capitals' future Hall of Famer Alex Ovechkin for the most among active players.
Pavelski has scored a goal in each of the last three games and began the series against the Kraken with a bang notching a four-goal effort in the Stars' Game 1 overtime loss.
Joe Pavelski: Puck-tipping KING. pic.twitter.com/dZCdVM7TkH
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) May 14, 2023
Unfortunately for Pavelski and the Stars, their effort on Saturday night wasn't enough to close out the Kraken in their best-of-seven semifinal series.
Seattle's offense exploded in Game 6 as they cruised to a 6-3 win. Jordan Eberle led the way, finishing with two goals and an assist, while Eeli Tolvanen also had a three-point night, tallying a goal and two helpers. Meanwhile, Matty Beniers and Yanni Gourde recorded a goal and an assist apiece.
Now knotted up at 3-3, the series will be decided by a Game 7 Monday in Dallas at 8 p.m. ET.
The winner will move on to the Western Conference Finals, playing the Vegas Golden Knights or Edmonton Oilers. Vegas leads their series 3-2, with a chance to advance with a win in Game 6 Sunday at 10 p.m. ET.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!