Dallas Stars and the Boston Bruins square off in heavyweight battle on President's Day

The Dallas Stars and the Boston Bruins face off against each other at noon CT on President's Day. When these two teams face off against each other, they scrap for goals. It comes down to the final second, and one little mistake could turn the game's momentum. It's kind of ironic that both of these teams lost in OT on Saturday. It will be interesting to see if this game goes to overtime. Here are the three keys of the game against the Boston Bruins as the Stars begin this tough road trip.

Dallas Stars vs. Boston Bruins: 3. The lead is essential today

The Stars have to get an early lead in the first period. They can't afford to trail against the Bruins, especially in the third period. I want to see a replica of the first period against Nashville the other week. The Bruins should be shaking their heads by the end of the first frame. What we saw last week from the Stars last Thursday is an example they need to duplicate against some of these tough Eastern Conference teams coming up. If the Stars can get an early lead against the Bruins, they have good odds of winning today.

Dallas Stars vs. Boston Bruins: 2. Shut down the Pastanator

The Stars must focus their defensive efforts on shutting down David "Pasta" Pastrnak this afternoon. Pastrnak has 34 goals and 45 assists in 55 games this season and looks to add to his total against the Stars this afternoon. Jake Oettinger will probably get the day off with another game tomorrow night against the Rangers. It's up to the defense to make sure Pastrnak does not feast against Scott Wedgewood. If the Stars can hold off Pasta tomorrow, the Stars can steal two points on the road.

Dallas Stars vs. Boston Bruins: 1. Matej Blumel

It will be interesting to see how Matej Blumel has improved since his last stint in the NHL last season. He had a good preseason, and was a representitive of the Texas Stars at the AHL All-Star game. It will be interesting to also see how he preforms today with Jamie Benn and Wyatt Johnston. Idk if the Stars would put him on the fourth line, but we will wait to see the line combinations during warmups. If Blumel can become a difference-maker this afternoon, the Stars should receive two points for their efforts.

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