Matt Dumba and the Minnesota Wild started a defining two-game stretch against the Dallas Stars with a determined performance.

They’re one step closer to a spot in the playoffs.

“That was what fueled the fire, just wanting to bury these guys,” Dumba said. “Not let them think that they could potentially get back into this thing by getting a couple victories against us.”

Dumba scored on a power play and finished with three assists for a career-high four points, leading the Wild past the fading Stars 5-2 on Thursday night.