Dallas Stars’ Inconsistency Issues Will Put Playoffs In Jeopardy

The Dallas Stars’ season is off to an average start. They find themselves in the pack, but are by no means leading it. If they continue on their inconsistent path, though, their postseason position could be lost entirely.

Dallas had an incredible 5-0 win last Friday at home, followed by a disheartening 5-1 decision on Monday and, most recently, a 4-3 shootout loss last night.

While it’s a stretch to say that these games are indicative of the Stars’ season in its entirety, it is fair to question their ability to play consistent hockey.

Light Switch Offense

The Dallas Stars have a great roster of offensive talents. That, however, means nothing if they’re unable to actually convert on the ice.

Unfortunately for the Stars, their offensive prowess hasn’t been the highlight of the year. Namely, they’ve struggled to score at even-strength, which is a far cry from what many would expect given the line-up.

More from Analysis

• Dallas Stars Traverse City Tournament: Who had great performances?
• Taking a look at the teams the Dallas Stars will be playing in the preseason
• Should the Dallas Stars revisit signing Patrick Kane this season?
• Realistic regular season stats for Dallas Stars Roope Hintz
• Realistic regular season stats for Dallas Stars Joe Pavelski

It’s either that Dallas is on top of their game – as seen in the 5-0 victory last week – or falling behind – as evident in the 5-2 loss. These two extremes are concerning for a number of reasons, but mainly because it’s anyone’s best guess as to what will happen on a nightly basis.

This makes the Stars among the strongest offensive teams some nights and the weakest others, which isn’t a good look in a league with as much talent as the NHL.

Disappearing Defense

Coupled with their scoring issues has been Dallas’ inconsistency in their own zone. For instance, the Stars entered the second period of the eventual 5-1 loss versus the Carolina Hurricanes tied.

They were on the road coming into the final 20 minutes of play with the end in sight and instead of playing Dallas Stars hockey, they surrendered four goals to lose.

Then, they had to carry over their disappointment into another game last night, which saw them fall behind, take a lead and then lose in the shootout.

Bottom line is that the Stars need to figure out what they’re doing both offensively and defensively. They have to determine a way to have at least similar team performances on the ice each night, win or lose.

Next: Stars Benefiting From Quiet Heroes

While it’s normal for teams to have off nights, this is greater than that. This is a miniature identity crisis and it’s featuring confusing back-and-forth with their abilities.

It’s a big concern that’s looming over the team right now and, if it goes without being fixed, it could cost them the postseason.