Dallas Stars’ Goaltender Problems Appear Solved with Ben Bishop in Net

The Dallas Stars have struggled with quality, consistent goaltending since Marty Turco owned the crease in the late 2000’s. Since then, they’ve had a few goalies that seemed promising – Jack Campbell, we’re looking at you – but they failed to meet expectations. Ben Bishop, however, seems like he might be the answer.

Dallas’ relationship with the blue paint on the ice has been tumultuous to say the least. They’ve been a franchise without a mainstay in net that they have complete confidence in, and it makes a huge difference.

Now that Ben Bishop has taken hold of the role of starter, though, the team seems to be thriving.

Defensive Alterations

The best offense is great defense, as they say. The Stars already have a great line-up offensively – with names like Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin and Jason Spezza it’s difficult to argue otherwise – but they lacked success in recent years because of their defensive play or lack there of.

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While previous coaches have tried to maintain a balance of sorts between the two ends of the ice, defense has almost always fallen to the back burner in Stars hockey.

But now Bishop’s ownership of the crease exudes confidence that is contagious. He’s able to make the big saves the team needs during times of chaos in Dallas’ zone. That single component of his game, while seemingly small, makes all the difference for the team.

From there, the offensive powerhouses can skate the puck out and head to the offensive zone to create chances of their own.

Size Reigns Supreme

Although former Dallas Stars starter Kari Lehtonen stands rather tall, Bishop is an astounding 6’7. That alone gives him an advantage to be a wall of sorts in front of the Dallas net.

His frame alone almost covers enough square footage of net to keep pucks out, but that coupled with his flexibility and keen sense of knowing where the puck is and you have a winning combination.

Those skills, again, feed the rest of the Stars’ game. Bishop is unafraid to use his size and make it his greatest asset in the crease, which is something a lot of goaltenders struggle with.

Next: Stars' Leadership Shining in Recent Successes

Bottom Line

While Bishop isn’t the answer to every Dallas Stars problem, he’s been able to make an impact in the short time he’s spent in Victory Green. The future is unknown, but his ability to be as comfortable with the Stars’ roster as he is this early is nothing short of encouraging.