Dallas Stars look to avoid getting thunderstruck by the Lightning tonight

Jan 15, 2022; Tampa, Florida, USA; Dallas Stars defenseman Joel Hanley (44) and Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Pierre-Edouard Bellemare (41) talk during the first period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 15, 2022; Tampa, Florida, USA; Dallas Stars defenseman Joel Hanley (44) and Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Pierre-Edouard Bellemare (41) talk during the first period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

How ironic is it that the Dallas Stars are taking on the Tampa Bay Lightning when there will be severe storms in the area tonight? Well, its going down at the American Airlines Center tonight as the defending Stanley Cup Champions roll into town for the night. Stars need to continue to win in regulation in order to stay in the race for that final wildcard spot. Every win from here on out matters, doesn’t matter which team it comes against.

Dallas Stars vs Tampa Bay Lightning preview: 3. Score!

Stars need a repeat of the game that happened on Sunday in Chicago. The defending Stanley Cup Champions won’t give us a two goal head start against them. Would be nice if they would but that’s not how hockey works. Stars can’t be afraid to set up in Tampa Bay’s zone and just fire the puck at the net. The Stars can’t wait till the 3rd period to start scoring against this opponent. Would be nice for Pavelski and Sons to get the scoring going in the first minute tonight.

Dallas Stars vs Tampa Bay Lightning preview: 2. Let Otter start tonight

If Braden Holtby was available and healthy to play tonight, I would start him over the other goaltenders. But since he isn’t, the Stars need to trust Jake Oettinger in net tonight against the Lightning. I know Oettinger wasn’t perfect against Chicago, but he gives us a better advantage in net than Wedgewood. Once we clinch that playoff spot for good, Otter needs to rest till the final two games of the season. You don’t want Oettinger burned out for the playoffs if they make it.

Dallas Stars vs Tampa Bay Lightning preview: 1. Lets shock the league

8:30 is a pretty late start so hopefully the Stars stop at the 711 across from the arena. I know it’s a late game but please show up and cheer on the Stars. They need all the fans they can get cheering on the team tomorrow night. Let’s create a atmosphere so chaotic that the Lightning lose and the Stars make the front page headlines on NHL.com tomorrow morning.

You can check other NHL scores from around the league on FanSided.com at this link here.