Dallas Stars: Jason Spezza’s Performance A Key For Team’s Success

Nothing about the NHL season is easy. It’s 82 games of pure blood, sweat and tears, so it’s understandably difficult to perform consistently over the span of many years. This is why Jason Spezza‘s performance is admirable and a key to the success of the Dallas Stars.

Jason Spezza entered the NHL as a second overall draft pick. That, however, was back in 2001. In the time since he put on his first Ottawa Senators jersey, the acclaimed center’s career has taken a few twists and turns.

Still, at the end of the day, No. 90 is a staple in Dallas and is, for now, a key to the team’s success in a few ways.

Confidence

Last season, Spezza was a shell of the player the Dallas Stars believed to have acquired when he joined the club back in 2014. He was lacking the assertiveness and follow through on the ice the that granted him the honor of being such a high draft pick, while simultaneously showing signs of frustration. He was second-guessing himself in a way that no one had really seen before, and it shook his confidence to its core.

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Now, Spezza has appeared to climb his way out of that hole, at least for now. He’s making plays this season that show his skillset — namely his gifted hands and play-making abilities. Whether it’s weaving a pass through the neutral zone or tipping in a shot from the point, Spezza’s confidence is very much apparent. And as a result, he has one goal and five points this year.

And it’s meaningful for the Stars. As a veteran player on the roster, young players look to Spezza for guidance. He’s been in the league for longer than some of them have been skating, and it’s that experience that grants him the title of mentor.

Of course, it’s hard to lead when you’re struggling to perform yourself. That’s why it’s key that No. 90 has shown growth in the right direction yet again.

Secondary Scoring

With Dallas’ offensive output down in the past few games, the question begs: Are the Dallas Stars lacking depth scoring? Right now, the answer is a resounding yes. Spezza, however, can help.

He’s a versatile player with the capability to play in a number of different situations. His skill isn’t tailor-made for one type of winger, which gives the coaching staff the flexibility they need to change things up.

Throw him on the power play to add skill and a methodic, but ever-changing approach. Pair him with young, fast forwards to encourage smart passing in all three zones. Make a line with offensive powerhouses and watch as he only fuels their fire.

When his adaptability is coupled with Spezza’s obvious preference for an offensive-minded style of play, it makes for a dynamic combination.

Next Steps

Although Spezza has yet to find his way back to the production of his past, he’s showing improvements on the ice that were completely missing last season. These steps in the right direction make being optimistic about the veteran center — and in turn the Stars — that much easier.