The Dallas Stars finally looked like themselves last night in a 4-1 victory over the Arizona Coyotes. While it’s just one game in a season of 82, it could be something to kick-start a new season for the team.
Although it’s impossible to play at a high level for all 82 games in an NHL season, the Dallas Stars were on a streak that was impressive to say the least.
That is until they fell off the wagon and looked like an entirely different team. Last night, they were able to come back and show up in a way they haven’t for a bit of time. Now, it’s time to start anew and focus on the final stretch of the season.
On the Line
Everything has been up in the air for the teams of the Western Conference this season. Every inch and point are hard-earned with blood, sweat and tears.
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Dallas is all too familiar with this concept, and they’ve struggled to find their energy at the tail end of January. However, February is off on the right foot. They came to play last night knowing that another loss could lead to a significant loss of confidence.
While it’s dramatic to say that their season was on the line last night, their momentum certainly was. The Stars are fighting to remain in the playoff picture this season and that’s simply a reality of the division and conference they find themselves in.
Playing like they had been was indicative of a team with little motivation and a big ego. They appeared to think they were guaranteed a playoff spot, when in fact they’re going to have to continue to fight tooth and nail to keep playing past early April.
Leaders Shine Bright
There are nights when top players can’t convert. Their shots are off the mark and their feet aren’t moving as fast as they’d like. It happens.
Dallas, however, was struggling to score around the board. That’s when issues really take hold and start impacting a team’s ability to earn any grounds or even be competitive in games.
Last night, the Stars saw their best players lead by example, though. Their performance should serve as guidance for the younger players in the room and a reminder for anyone who has forgotten what’s at stake.
This team missed the playoffs last season after being dubbed a Stanley Cup favorite by a few. They acquired new faces who were supposed to make a difference, but that expectation doesn’t automatically lead to success on the ice. Dallas learned that the hard way and shouldn’t revert to old habits.
Next: Looking at the Dallas Stars' February Schedule
End in Sight
It’s not over for the Stars. They’re in the thick of things and can be in the postseason if they continue to show up and play effective Dallas Stars hockey we’ve grown to know and love. If they can play like they did last night, there shouldn’t be much to worry about.
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