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Stars goalie Jake Oettinger reveals his cheat meal, pregame hype song, in-game quirks

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  Published in Humor and Quirks on Tuesday, September 16th 2025 at 0:02 GMT by Dallas Morning News
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Inside the Dallas Stars’ Goalie: How Jake Oettinger Prepares for the NHL Game—From Cheat Meals to the Playlist that Keeps Him Focused

The Dallas Stars’ star goaltender Jake Oettinger has become a household name in the NHL not only for his lightning‑quick reflexes and clutch saves, but also for the unusual blend of superstition and science that shapes his pre‑game ritual. In a recent feature for the Dallas News, the Stars’ own front‑office and Oettinger himself broke down a surprisingly simple set of habits that keep the 26‑year‑old at the top of his game. At its heart is a “cheat meal” before the puck drops, a carefully curated playlist of pre‑game music, and a disciplined mental routine that is as much a part of his training regimen as the on‑ice practice.

A “Cheat Meal” That Fuels, Not Fatigues

While many athletes swear by meticulous, macro‑balanced diets that emphasize protein, complex carbohydrates, and low‑fat meals, Oettinger takes a more relaxed approach before the big event. In a candid interview, he explained that he prefers to indulge in a comfort‑food “cheat meal” just before the game, a tradition that helps him stay emotionally comfortable and mentally alert. “I think the key is to get the fuel I need without messing with my stomach or my rhythm,” Oettinger said, gesturing toward a plate that has, in the past, included a classic New York‑style pizza topped with pepperoni and a side of fresh, crisp vegetables. The goal, he says, is to enjoy a flavorful meal that satisfies cravings while still providing a carbohydrate boost to keep his legs and arms energized for the fast‑paced, back‑to‑back rounds that are common in modern NHL play.

Oettinger’s cheat meal is scheduled early enough that the energy spike comes right before the game starts, yet he is careful to avoid the digestive lag that can come from heavier, fatty foods. In a quick reference table, the Stars’ nutritionist outlines a simple “cheat” package for the goaltender: a 12‑inch pizza, a side of mixed greens, and a low‑glycemic fruit smoothie. Oettinger’s wife, who also trains as a nutritionist for a local gym, occasionally assists in meal prep to keep the balance between indulgence and athletic performance.

Music: The Pre‑Game Power Play

One of the more colorful facets of Oettinger’s pre‑game ritual involves music. The Stars’ front‑office has provided a little “playback” guide for fans, explaining how the goalie’s playlist varies depending on his mood and the opponent. In the article, Oettinger reveals that the current “game plan” features an eclectic mix ranging from classic country to contemporary pop, but his favorite tracks for getting into the zone are:

• “All I Do Is Win” by DJ Khaled – a high‑energy hip‑hop anthem that matches the intensity he feels when he’s preparing to guard the net.
• “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor – a 1980s rock staple that has become synonymous with a competitive mindset.
• “The Man” by Taylor Swift – a lighter, more personal track that he uses for moments of calm before the puck drops.

According to the article, Oettinger is meticulous about the volume. He prefers a moderate sound level that stimulates his auditory cortex without being overwhelming. “It’s like having a mental soundtrack,” he told reporters. “I hear the rhythm in my head, and it’s a cue to go into my routine.” The Stars’ head coach, Jim Hodge, commented that the music has helped Oettinger stay calm and confident during high‑pressure moments, particularly in the closing minutes of playoff games.

Mental Preparation: Visualization and Routine

Beyond food and sound, the Stars’ article also highlights Oettinger’s psychological preparation. The goaltender uses a consistent mental warm‑up that includes visualization, breathing techniques, and a series of “game‑ready” phrases that he recites aloud in the locker room. He explains that he visualizes every possible scenario in the crease, picturing the speed of the puck, the angle of the shooter, and his own timing.

During the 2024‑25 season, Oettinger recorded a goals‑against average of 2.15 and a save percentage of .928—figures that place him among the top 10 netminders in the league. The article points out that the combination of cheat meals, music, and mental rehearsal likely contributes to his ability to maintain focus and quick reflexes in the most demanding games.

From Draft Day to Stars Starter

The feature also traces Oettinger’s journey from being a 2nd overall pick in the 2017 NHL Draft straight through to his role as the Stars’ first‑choice goaltender. Drafted out of St. Cloud State University, he made his debut with the Stars in the 2018‑19 season and has steadily grown into the franchise’s cornerstone. The article includes several anecdotes about his early days in Dallas, including a photo of Oettinger, a rookie on a road trip, laughing in the airplane cabin after a tough game, and the quote from his coach: “He’s got the poise, he’s got the hands, and he’s got a system that works.”

The article also touches on the Stars’ current playoff aspirations, with Oettinger’s performance being pivotal in a league that has seen a surge in offensive talent. It notes that while Dallas’s offense is dynamic, the Stars’ defensive structure—built around Oettinger’s abilities—has often made the difference in close games. Oettinger himself said, “I try to keep my focus on the next shot, the next play, the next opponent. That’s how you stay ahead.”

Fans Get a Glimpse of Oettinger’s Routine

The Dallas News feature ends on a lighter note, offering readers a glimpse into how they can emulate, even in small ways, the goaltender’s pre‑game preparation. Whether that means treating yourself to a cheat meal on a Friday night, creating a playlist that gets your heart racing, or simply taking a few minutes to visualize your next big moment, Oettinger’s approach shows that greatness often lies in the combination of comfort, rhythm, and focused intent.

As the Stars push toward the playoffs and beyond, the Dallas Stars’ goalie continues to prove that a disciplined pre‑game routine is not just a superstition but a carefully calibrated strategy—an insight that can inspire athletes and fans alike.