Dallas Stars kick off the eastern roadtrip against Crosby and Malkin

Jan 8, 2022; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Stars center Joe Pavelski (16) scores a goal against Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Tristan Jarry (35) in the third period at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 8, 2022; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Stars center Joe Pavelski (16) scores a goal against Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Tristan Jarry (35) in the third period at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports

The Dallas Stars took off on a plane for the east coast for a road trip out there before Christmas. Their first stop is in the city of Pittsburgh as they take on the Pittsburgh Penguins. This is a huge first game on the road as they are going up against one of the best players in the league, Sidney Crosby The Stars did call up forward Riley Tufte from the Texas Stars and he might see some action this road trip. Here are the three keys to the game against Sidney Crosby and the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Dallas Stars vs Pittsburgh Penguins Preview: 3. Give Scott Wedgewood the start

Since Jake Oettinger started most of the games during the home stand the Stars just had, expect Scott Wedgewood to start. It’s nothing against Oettinger, it’s just he needs a rest from all the home games that he’s played. Scott Wedgewood deserves some playing time and I totally trust him to do well against the Penguins.

Dallas Stars vs Pittsburgh Penguins Preview: 2. Let’s get the offense going again

I know the top line is probably exhausted from all the goals that they scored in the month of November. But all the lines have got to get back to being their dominant selves and put the puck in the back of the net. Looking at who the Stars are playing on this east coast road trip, they have to set the tone early. If the Stars can’t get out to an early lead as they did against the Senators, might be a very long road trip for the team.

Dallas Stars vs Pittsburgh Penguins Preview: 1. Don’t let Suter near Crosby

Hopefully, Pete DeBoer will not allow Ryan Suter to guard Sidney Crosby. That is a total nightmare that fans don’t want to endure on a Monday night. I would recommend putting Miro Heiskanen on him. Heiskanen has done a good job against top players like Connor McDavid. If Sidney Crosby gets things going early with a goal in the first period, it will be a long night for the Stars.

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