The 2026 NHL playoffs are just around the corner, and the Dallas Stars are gearing up to face off against the Minnesota Wild in the first round of the Stanley Cup tournament. As the NHL futures odds continue to take shape, fans are eagerly anticipating the matchup between these two Western Conference powerhouses. The Stars, led by captain Jamie Benn, have been a force to be reckoned with in recent years, while the Wild have been steadily building a strong roster under the guidance of coach Dean Evason. With the playoffs set to kick off, will the Stars' experience and firepower be enough to take down the Wild, or will Minnesota's young talent and stingy defense prove to be too much for Dallas to handle?


NHL futures odds: Stars to face Wild in first round of 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs  CBS Sports