Dallas Stars: Alexander Radulov Needs More Recognition For His Efforts
It’s not easy to join a new team after only just returning to the NHL. Alexander Radulov signed with the Dallas Stars in the offseason and has made a huge impact, but he hasn’t necessarily been given the credit he deserves.
The Dallas Stars made a number of changes throughout the offseason last summer. While the new faces joining the team have had a great impact on their season, some players have been hidden from the spotlight.
Ben Bishop‘s role as the starting goaltender obviously results in his name coming up often, and he’s been a rather dependable player. However, Alexander Radulov should be a topic of conversation in a more notable way throughout the league for his contributions.
Uncertainty in Return
A lot of teams were questioning if Radulov still has what it takes to play in the NHL and make a difference. He has done everything through his 43 game performance to dispel any doubts.
Dallas Stars
No. 47 has accumulated 38 points (16G, 22A) thus far, and he shows no signs of stopping. Not to mention that his physical play and the excitement he has for the game is contagious on the Stars. That energy fuels the team, especially during times when things aren’t going as planned.
His ability to disprove any doubters has solidified that Radulov is still an NHL-caliber player; however, he hasn’t necessarily been the topic of conversation as much as he should be by those same people.
All Star Snub
The NHL All Star game is a difficult thing to judge. There are so many restrictions and admittedly politics that go into determining which players will attend. It’s an expensive event that the league needs to earn a profit from, which is understandable.
However, with that said it’s a bit confusing to not see Radulov on the roster. His season has been a standout for the Stars. It’d be rather easy to argue that Dallas wouldn’t been in as good of a place in the standings if not for No. 47.
Plus, from the league’s standpoint, it would make sense to honor the return to the NHL in a big, notable way.
That isn’t to take anything away from Tyler Seguin‘s selection, though. He is a leader within the Stars’ locker room and has been a consistent player for them since he joined the team. Since he’s gone every year there’s been an All Star game since becoming a Dallas Star, though, it would seem that the committee choosing a new face would be beneficial.
Moving Forward
There’s no signs that people failing to acknowledge his accomplishments to the extent they should have impacted Radulov in any noticeable way. He’s a professional and will continue to play accordingly regardless of the conversations being had.
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While recognition would be excellent, No. 47’s efforts thus far this season really speak for themselves. Radulov has shattered any expectations people had for him in the first half of the season, and he shows no signs of stopping.