What a difference a weekend can make. This time last week, the Dallas Stars community was feeling pretty good post-deadline. So much has been said about the acquisition of Mikko Rantanen that I don’t want to keep harping on it — other than to say, elite talents are elite talents, and I’m willing to give some time for this one to gel.
Unfortunately there wasn’t time for that, and the Stars were faced with not one, but two big Central Division showdowns that many were calling a barometer for the playoffs. Personally, I’m not so sure. And as the resident bearer of glasses always half-full, to you I say don’t lose hope – things are going to be ok. Robert Tiffin offered a thorough analysis I thought was quite balanced.
That’s not to say Dallas is pleased with the way this game went—they obviously don’t want to cede that much possession no matter where the shots come from—but Winnipeg really did dominate the Stars on Friday, whereas the Avalanche needed a five-one advantage in power plays just to get to overtime. That may be an unfair way of framing it, but it’s not altogether inaccurate either.
This is a good team here in Dallas – one that many chose as Stanley Cup favorites before the season began. And barring a couple of injuries, it’s difficult to argue that this team has gotten anything other than better. There are vulnerabilities for sure (Dallas’ being defense mostly), but every team has those. The glass half full though is maybe, just maybe that’ll get shored up in time for the playoffs too.
It was a bummer of a way to cap an overtime, but still better than Dallas probably deserved. All up, the Stars probably take that point with the assurance that 3-on-3 ceases to exist after mid-April. After all, they have a pretty good defenseman of their own they expect back around that same time.
Read more of Robert Tiffin’s thoughts from the weekend on his blog. [Stars Thoughts]
Dallas Stars Stuff
If you’re looking for a glass that’s half full — maybe start here.
Apparently this is the Robert Tiffen show now. 🙂 But maybe we’re on the same wavelength…
Wyatt Johnston is the youngest alternate captain in the NHL this season. Here's why that's very cool, but also unsurprising. https://t.co/xI1FfRUbdC
— Robert Tiffin (@RobertTiffin) March 14, 2025
Elsewhere in the Central
Last night was fairly quiet, just featuring one game in the Central Division — a 3-1 Minnesota Wild win over the Los Angeles Kings. Tonight, on the other hand, features several teams from the Murder Death Kill Division, including the Stars bouncing back against the Anaheim Ducks:
- The Blues and Predators get it started with a divisional matchup in Nashville. [PREVIEW]
- The Blackhawks are hosting the Kraken, hoping for a bounce back of their own. [PREVIEW]
- Utah HC visits Edmonton, trying to keep their playoff chances alive. [PREVIEW]
- And the Jets head to Vancouver to face another playoff hopeful in the Canucks. [PREVIEW]
Around the NHL
Yesterday, the NHL announced the 2025 Global Series — and it’s heading to Sweden!
We have our first official playoff elimination in the San Jose Sharks.
Greetings from Scenic Cedar Park and Beautiful Boise!
The Texas Stars are the epitome of good vibes coming out of the weekend!
And don’t miss the latest Tipping the Scales from the boys in Boise.
Finally
Come out and support the Stars tonight at the AAC for Noche Mexicana! ¡Vamos Stars!
¡Vamos Stars! 🇲🇽
— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) March 18, 2025
Noche Mexicana returns tomorrow as we return to @AACenter for a 4-game homestand! 🪇
Join us early to enjoy all the entertainment, and for your chance to receive one of our Noche Mexicana bandanas while supplies last!
📰 MORE: https://t.co/CLnNLrrtTg… pic.twitter.com/pmclS3DnKG