Leesl: For those of you clicking through looking for a line-dancing lesson—sorry to disappoint. This weekend, the only “two-steppin” going on is our remote jumping between the rink and the court as the Stars and Spurs kick off their 2026 postseason runs. If you’re new to our site, let me explain that I’m a Texas gal through and through—raised with the silver & black in San Antonio and now proud to call the Dallas area home. And today my Lone Star State is shining even brighter than usual. ✨
There’s an old saying down here that “it ain’t braggin” if it’s true,” and let me tell you—these two teams are giving folks plenty to boast about. 🤠 The Wemby-led Spurs are entering the playoffs after a historic 62-win season, reclaiming their status as a powerhouse and securing the West’s No. 2 seed. Meanwhile, the Stars clawed through a brutal Central Division to hit the 50-win milestone, proving they have the grit and depth for a serious Stanley Cup push. Both series are going to be a battle from the first whistle, so let’s get into the matchups as we get ready for the dance…no boots required! 👢🚫
Step 1: The Dallas Stars vs. Minnesota Wild
To understand that the Wild have a burr in their saddle, you only have to look back to 2023 when the Stars sent the Wild packing in a bruising six-game exit. Add in the historical “North Stars” move to Dallas, and you’ve got a rivalry that’s as physical as it is personal. Expect a 60-minute battle for every inch of ice; these two teams specialize in heavy playoff hockey, and neither one is afraid to finish a check.
The Breakdown:
- This series will likely be won or lost in the crease. Dallas’s own Jake Oettinger has a history of being a brick wall against his hometown Minnesota team. He’ll be staring down the Wild’s young standout Jesper Wallstedt, who is talented but hasn’t yet faced the playoff pressure the Stars can apply.
- We’ll be leaning on Jason Robertson and Wyatt Johnston—who both put up 40+ goals this season—to find the gaps in Minnesota’s physical defense.
- Puck drops today at 4:30 PM at the AAC. In a series this physical, starting at home in a sea of Victory Green is the ultimate edge.
Step 2: The San Antonio Spurs vs. Portland Trail Blazers
The Spurs didn’t just show up; they brought the herd! The Spurs secured the No. 2 seed by playing the smartest basketball in the West. While Portland is the underdog scratching for a way into this series, their path to an upset looks mighty narrow. The biggest hurdle for the Blazers is obviously Victor Wembanyama. Wemby finished the regular season leading the league in blocks and double-doubles, and his ability to shut down the paint makes it nearly impossible for Portland to get anything easy at the rim.
The Breakdown:
- The Spurs are currently 4th in the league for ball security, rarely giving away possessions. On the flip side, Portland has struggled with turnovers all year. If the Spurs keep playing clean, disciplined ball, they are going to force Portland into a lot of desperate, low-percentage plays.
- The series will be defined by how Portland handles Wemby; they will have to change their entire offensive game plan just to account for him.
- The big to-do gets goin’ tomorrow (Sunday) at 8:00 PM at the Frost Bank Center. After the season they’ve had, that arena is going to be rocking, and I expect them to use that energy to take control of this series early.
Even though Coach Pop is now in the front office, he knows exactly what it takes to win a ring. He made a rare appearance at practice on Friday to remind the team to “be us” and maintain the identity that brought them to this historic winning season. For this team, having that five-time champion wisdom in the room is the best lucky charm we could ask for. ☘️
Now, I could talk about the Stars and Spurs until the cows come home, but Andy’s been keeping an eye on what’s happenin’ outside our backyard. Here’s his take! 🎙️
Andy’s Two Bits:
Andy: I’ve noticed that whenever Texas teams make the postseason, Leesl’s twang comes out in full force—I think she’s one “y’all” away from breaking out the pom-poms she keeps hidden in the closet. For my weekend watch list:
- The Motor City Machine! I have to give it to the Pistons—they are the clear favorites in the East after a dominant 59-win season. If anyone wants to reach the Finals, the road goes through Detroit, and they aren’t looking to give an inch.
- The Tatum Watch: In Boston, all eyes are on Jayson Tatum’s recovery. The Celtics are a different team without him at 100%, and his health is the biggest “if” in the Eastern postseason right now.
- The Battle of PA: If you like your hockey with a side of bad blood, keep an eye on the Flyers vs. Penguins. Even for a first-round series, this rivalry is already reaching a boiling point.
Andy and I might have two left feet when it comes to an actual dance floor, but we’re all in on this postseason. What about you? Don’t be shy—shuffle on into the comments and tell us which game you’re watching first. Let me know in the comments! 👇
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