With the injury bug currently plaguing Dallas, Stars prospect Gemel Smith has been taking every chance to impress this offseason. In particular, writes Mike Heika, the center—a fourth-round pick in 2012—has shown off his consistency.
As the Stars head into their final preseason game in Las Vegas Friday, Smith is a candidate to play in all seven exhibition contests. That could push a decision on his status possibly as deep as the NHL season opener Oct. 13.
“I like his skating, it’s very noticeable,” Stars coach Lindy Ruff said. “Right now he’s just a cut above other guys.”
Smith also said he’s trying to take things one day at a time and keep himself mentally sharp.
“It’s unfortunate what happened to those guys, but if the opportunity is there I am going to try and step up and fill those roles and play my hardest and hope for the best,” he said.
For more on Smith and his preseason play, head over to the link. [SportsDayDFW]
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The Stars lost 1-0 to the Avalanche last night. If you weren’t able to follow the preseason action, Taylor has more for you here.
Guess who’s the best left winger in the league? Jamie Benn claimed the top spot in Sportsnet’s countdown. Patrick Sharp also made the cut. [Sportsnet]
The Stars are continuing to trim their roster.
The Dallas Stars assign F Denis Gurianov and G Henri Kiviaho to Texas (AHL). F Matt Mangene released from PTO. Roster now at 35 players.
— Mark Stepneski (@StarsInsideEdge) October 5, 2016
ESPN has the Stars finishing second in the Central. Who’s edging them out for first place? P.K. Subban and the Predators. [ESPN]
And speaking of season previews, this fifth grader has the Stars in the running for the Stanley Cup. I like their style. [Carter Hud]
The Stars also earned a spot on Pete Blackburn’s list of the most likely Stanley Cup contenders this season. [Fox Sports]
Lindy Ruff offered this update on who we can expect to see on the ice opening night.
Lindy Ruff on if Seguin, Hemsky, and Shore could be ready by opening night: “It’s a possibility. We’ll see where we are after the weekend.”
— Mark Stepneski (@StarsInsideEdge) October 5, 2016
And speaking of injuries, which player will the Stars miss most? [SportsDayDFW]
The Oilers have officially named Connor McDavid as their captain, making him the youngest captain in NHL history. [TSN]
Sean McIndoe takes a look at which other players could be getting a “C” on their jersey soon enough. [The Hockey News]
The Kings will be without Tanner Pearson to start the regular season.
L.A. Kings’ Pearson suspended for remainder of preseason and 2 regular season games for illegal check to the head. https://t.co/OTUFonsvCW
— NHL Player Safety (@NHLPlayerSafety) October 5, 2016
Veteran defenseman Dan Boyle is hanging up his skates after more than 1,000 NHL games. [Puck Daddy]
And finally, don’t forget to tune in on Friday.
Next up, Las Vegas.
On Friday, #Stars will take on the Kings at Frozen Fury XVIII at 9:00 PM CT. The game will be broadcast on @NHLNetwork. pic.twitter.com/aDqqvjeuEp
— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) October 6, 2016