Dallas Stars Training Camp: Day 1 Review

The Dallas Stars opened training camp today, signaling the new NHL season is approaching. Stars fans could not be any more anxious to see the 2021-22 squad take the ice. Blackout Dallas is following all the storylines and position battles as Stars camp in Frisco, TX gets underway.

Line pairings

Like most NHL teams, the Stars will breakup their training camp days into multiple sessions that feature different players. Mike Heika was first to report the line combinations Dallas flashed over each session of day 1.

One might be surprised to see Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin separated or Andrej Sekera in a defensive pairing ahead of Jani Hakaanpa. However, the first day of training camp is hardly a reflection of the Dallas Stars opening night lineup.

Fans should expect to see Stars coaches mix and match personnel for another couple of days. It is typical that teams use training camp to seek out player chemistry and pair team veterans with newcomers and younger players. Regardless, we are intrigued to see a Seguin, Alexander Radulov, and Joel Kiviranta line, as we all as Ryan Suter paired with John Klingberg.

Bishop is back. Or is he?

Ben Bishop is back on the ice after not playing at all last season. Bishop told Heika he’s “excited to be working out again” and “trying” to play this season. Such words are interesting as they suggest Bishop is nowhere near game shape. One might also conclude there is no guarantee the Stars goalie sees the ice this season. Heika also stated on his social media that neither Bishop or Roope Hintz have been cleared to play.

Holtby’s turtles

Given the Bishop uncertainty, Braden Holtby’s signing could make a lot more sense in the coming weeks. Speaking of Holtby, the Dallas Stars were pleased announced the goaltender’s pet turtles made the trip.

Holtby’s turtles, Honey and Maple, garnered a lot of fan fare during their time with the Washington Capitals. We’re hoping Holtby having his turtles in Dallas is a good omen. If Holtby has a rebound season with the Stars, we’re sure there will be no shortage of turtle-themed merchandise ideas afloat.

Healthy Forwards

Another significant bit from day one of camp is regarding the health of Seguin and Radulov. Both missed a majority of the 2020-21 season, but have reported to camp in excellent shape. Radulov mentioned to Heika that his 2021 surgery corrected a core body injury that had “nagged” the forward for years.

The Stars announced their camp roster on Tuesday, a list that included 35 forwards, 19 defenseman, and 7 goalies. Media day then ensued at Comerica Center on Wednesday.

Dallas will be back on the ice Friday and run camp through Saturday, Oct. 9. Preseason action begins Monday, Sep. 27 when the Stars travel to St. Louis. -J.G.