Hope has been the name of the game for the Dallas Stars this season, and frankly, the disappointing latter half of the season was a letdown. The summer provides a period of respite for the team, allowing them to rebuild their base and prepare to fight for their dignity in the fall.
As the playoff season ensues, it’s almost reassuring to watch some of the Stars’ competitors be steamrolled. Of course, Dallas Stars fans can empathize with watching the brutal first round of the competition but hopefully, it’s a wake-up call for the players to utilize their downtime to improve. Taking breaks is crucial in injury prevention and mental stability.
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Imagine a Stars team in which their young, explosive energy was channeled into organized play. The team could have potential to be a real threat for competing teams; however, it’s up to them to buy into Hitchcock’s visions, as they deviate a little bit from the norm.
It’s a Science By Consensus
2016-17 looked like a disheveled mess of talented young players. Normally, this issue would appear daunting to an incoming coach, but Hitchcock seems prepared to accept the challenge. Hitchcock answered questions directly from Stars fans on Monday. Many questions aimed at getting to know the coach, but there were a few questions that really aimed towards finding hope for next year.
For example, when asked to address the GAA of the previous season, Hitch answered that he’d plans to improve from the back of the ice forward.
This is improved with attitude. Everyone works for the goalie. It's not one thing, it's a collective attitude. https://t.co/KSY5pJzbZS
— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) April 17, 2017
A number of answers which focus on the attitude of the team speak volumes about Hitch’s plans. Success won’t come from talent alone. The ‘team’ mindset will push the Dallas Stars toward the redemption they seek.
When the players are in sync with their goals, they will become as notable as they were in 2015-16. That’s why taking advantage of their time off is such a big deal. The previous season is still going to be a burning memory, but imagine what kind of motivation it will be for the future.
Taking on the Summer Break
Three months off of the ice is a long time; however, it may be just what the Stars need. The nagging injuries can be addressed, relaxing breaks can be enjoyed and the players can have the privacy that they wouldn’t have during the regular season. It’s a scary thought that the next season is so far away, but it’s probably for the best.
Working together will be a huge factor in next season’s success.
Everybody chips in to help everybody. No walls, no windows. https://t.co/KJPAeyQKuC
— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) April 17, 2017
There’s no doubting that Ken Hitchcock visions resounding success for the Dallas Stars. He’s walking into a young team, which can be seen as a disadvantage. Except, Hitchcock sees the roster as a block of clay that he intends to transform into a work of art.
It’ll be a stretch for the Stars to absolutely turn things around in the coming season. The key to the redemption they seek is a concept which they have yet to fully grasp: unity on the ice. They should to recall past successes and notice what can improve
Next: Stars' Top 10 Playoff Games Over Last Five Years
The Stars have a lot of potential next season, but the break is a time for the team to prepare for the work required next fall.