Dallas Stars have a Chance to Regroup on Home Ice

The Dallas Stars have struggled on the road at times this season, but their upcoming games at home will provide them a chance to get back on track.

The Dallas Stars fell to the Winnipeg Jets Thursday night, 5-2. They surrendered three goals in the first period and gave up two power play goals for the first time all season.

Now, they’ve returned to the American Airlines Center in Dallas to find their stride yet again.

Special Teams

While there’s no reason to panic when it comes to the Stars’ special teams, it is a bit of an eye-opener that they gave up two power play goals in the opening 20 minutes in Winnipeg. Their penalty kill has been such a great part of their game, and to see that falter last game is a bit alarming.

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Not to mention the lack of power play opportunities the Stars had against the Jets. While that isn’t entirely up to them, it is interesting that Dallas was called for significantly more penalties than their opponent – something that arguably cost them the game.

At home the Stars can take advantage of the crowd’s energy and the fact that they are capable of playing incredibly well on special teams. It’s a strength that Dallas will recapture while in Big D.

Goaltending

Ben Bishop has been great for the Stars this season, especially considering it’s his first in Victory Green. However, last game he wasn’t as on top of his play as usual.

Tonight, it looks like Kari Lehtonen will be in the blue paint, which will allow for him to get some needed playing time and for Bishop to rest. Again, the home crowd advantage is something that encourages players like Lehtonen and it will only help his play tonight.

Next: Stars Haven't Mastered How to Start Slow and Win

Bottom Line

At the end of the day, the Dallas Stars will find their groove yet again. They lost the last game in a fashion they aren’t proud of, and that alone will fuel their fire tonight.