Would have had this out sooner but the new NHL app is umm… terrible. In all seriousness, that was one way to kick off the 2023 preseason schedule with a bang. All the fans in attendance at the H-E-B Center saw the Arizona Coyotes run for the hills. The Dallas Stars would go on to win 7-0 in what was a complete domination from the opening puck drop.
The Stars outshot the Coyotes 50-11 which was incredible, to say the least. I didn’t think the Stars had it in them to do this to an opponent even in a preseason game.
Pete DeBoer and his coaching staff could have some tough cuts to make near the end of the preseason slate. Let’s take a look at the three takeaways from the Star’s preseason debut last night.
Dallas Stars vs. Arizona Coyotes Recap: 3. Arizona was stretched thin
Now before fans go on to celebrate the complete beatdown of the Coyotes last night, they were stretched thin. They just got back from overseas in Australia as they played the Los Angeles Kings twice. This team was exhausted and you could tell they tried their best to make this a game. I would like to see how this team does against a rested and ready-to-go hockey team.
Dallas Stars vs. Arizona Coyotes Recap: 2. Logan Stankoven and Sam Steel looked good
The Stars had two players that really stood out against the Coyotes and it was Logan Stankoven and Sam Steel. Logan Stankoven finished the game with two goals. After having a lackluster prospect tournament showing, he showed last night that the rust is gone and he’s ready to compete for an Opening Night roster spot. Whether he ends up in Dallas or goes down to Cedar Park to start the year, either team is getting an offensive juggernaut.
Steel was also a player that stood out as well. After going up against the Stars in the first round of the playoffs with the Minnesota Wild, he showed why Nill signed him. He finished with a goal and probably could have had more if he wanted to. I really think Steel could be a big part of this Stars’ team this season and provide some offense as well. I know it’s only one preseason game but he did make quite an impression on the Stars’ fanbase.
Dallas Stars vs. Arizona Coyotes Recap: 1. Texas Stars could be powerful next season
Texas Stars Head Coach Neil Graham is probably smiling from ear to ear after last night’s game. The prospects really put on a game offensively and Graham might have one of the best offensive units in the AHL next season. I’m sure he is at his house already coming up with line pairings that could work to bring an AHL Title to Cedar Park next season. We already know the Dallas Stars are going to be good next season, but the Texas Stars could have a historic season.