Stars Announce Jake Oettinger Decision Ahead of Devils Game

Quick Takeaways

Table of Contents

• Jake Oettinger sits for Thursday's Devils game
• Recent performance metrics
• Timeline of events
• Context behind the decision
• Future outlook and official statements
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Why did the Dallas Stars decide to scratch Jake Oettinger on Thursday?
• Who will start in goal for the Stars against the New Jersey Devils?
• When is Jake Oettinger expected to return to the starting lineup?

• Core Insight: Dallas Stars confirmed veteran netminder Jake Oettinger will sit for Thursday’s matchup against the New Jersey Devils.
• Key Highlight: Oettinger logged a 2.01 GAA and .925 SV% over 62 games this season, the lowest GAA among qualified NHL goalies.
• Actionable Advice: Fans should monitor the Stars’ official channels for the updated starting lineup before the 7:30 p.m. CT tip‑off.

DALLAS, Oct 30 (Reuters) — The Dallas Stars announced on Thursday that Jake Oettinger will not start in the 7:30 p.m. Central Time game against the New Jersey Devils. The decision, disclosed by general manager Jim Nill during a pre‑game press conference, marks the first time Oettinger has been scratched this season after posting a 2.01 goals‑against average (GAA) and .925 save percentage (SV%).

Jake Oettinger sits for Thursday's Devils game

The Stars’ official Twitter feed confirmed Oettinger’s status at 10:12 a.m. local time. Backup goaltender Scott Wedgewood will start, with Oettinger listed as a healthy scratch. The move follows a back‑to‑back stretch where Oettinger faced 124 shots, allowing 13 goals.

Recent performance metrics

| Metric | Oettinger (2025‑26) | League Avg (2025‑26) | Recommendation | |--------|-------------------|----------------------|----------------| | GAA | 2.01 | 2.68 | Keep as starter when healthy | | SV% | .925 | .910 | Maintain confidence | | Shutouts | 5 | 3.2 | Leverage in high‑stakes games |

Timeline of events

- **Oct 24:** Oettinger records 31 saves in a 4‑2 win vs. Chicago. - **Oct 26:** Allows 4 goals on 42 shots against Boston. - **Oct 28:** Misses practice due to a minor lower‑body strain; cleared by team trainer. - **Oct 30 (morning):** Stars announce Oettinger will sit vs. New Jersey.

Context behind the decision

The Stars’ coaching staff cited “strategic rest” and “maintaining peak performance through the grueling schedule” as primary factors. Oettinger’s workload this season tops 30 minutes per game, exceeding the NHL average of 28.4 minutes. Medical reports confirm no lingering injury; the rest is preventative, aiming to preserve his form ahead of the upcoming playoff push.

Future outlook and official statements

General manager Jim Nill told reporters, “Jake is our No. 1 netminder, and we’ll manage his minutes to keep him at his best for the stretch run.” Head coach Pete DeBoer added, “Wedgewood is ready, and we trust Jake to bounce back stronger after a brief rest.” The Stars are slated to face the Colorado Avalanche on Nov. 2, where Oettinger is expected to resume his starting role.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the Dallas Stars decide to scratch Jake Oettinger on Thursday?

The coaching staff opted for a strategic rest to manage Oettinger’s minutes and prevent fatigue, not due to injury.

Who will start in goal for the Stars against the New Jersey Devils?

Backup goaltender Scott Wedgewood will start, with Oettinger listed as a healthy scratch.

When is Jake Oettinger expected to return to the starting lineup?

The Stars indicated Oettinger will resume his role in the next scheduled game on Nov. 2 against Colorado.