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Dallas Stars Daily Links: Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin Talk Ken Hitchcock

Posted on by Melissa Flandreau

Since the press conference announcing Ken Hitchcock as the Stars’ new head coach, much of the talk has centered on whether the team’s top players will be on board. Mark Stepneski and Mike Heika took a look at Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn’s thoughts on the hiring.

Seguin had this to say regarding Hitchcock’s comment on him being a No. 1 center.

Seguin, when asked about Hitchcock’s plans, said he is relishing the opportunity.

“It gets me giddy. It gets me giddy,” Seguin said. “Since I’ve come to Dallas I’ve wanted to be a number one centerman. I still want to be. I want to be a number one centerman and a two-way guy.”

Meanwhile, Heika discussed why the relationship between Hitchcock and Benn is crucial to the Stars’ success next season.

By mixing Benn’s natural lead-by-example way with a more vocal approach, the coach thinks he could have one of the best captains in the league.

“He’s quiet only because he thinks it’s not his place. But he’s now found out that it is his place,” Hitchcock said of the message of their talk. “You can’t have leaders who aren’t vocal, they have to be vocal. He’s understanding that. He’s going to become a vocal determined leader, and I think that’s really going to help us with our positive direction.”

There’s more on Seguin here and Benn here.

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In his latest mailbag, Sean Shapiro talks Ken Hitchcock, Cody Eakin’s future in Dallas, and what to do about the defense. [Wrong Side of the Red Line]

In Texas Stars news…

There was plenty of playoff hockey to go around last night.

  • After scoring late in regulation, the Canadiens beat the Rangers 4-3 in overtime, thanks to a goal from Alexander Radulov, and tied the series at one. [Habs Eyes on the Prize]/

  • A goal from Jaden Schwartz lifted the Blues to a 2-1 win—and 2-0 series lead—over the Wild. [Hockey Wilderness]/

  • The Penguins took a 2-0 series lead with a 4-1 win over the Blue Jackets. [Pennsburgh]/

  • The Oilers beat the Sharks 2-0 and tied the series at one. [Fear the Fin]/

The Hockey News takes a look back at pre-season predictions and evaluates how each team lived up to—or failed to meet—expectations. [The Hockey News]

Patrick Eaves’ arrival in Anaheim has given the Ducks added stability. [NHL]

From Lindy Ruff to Darryl Sutter, where other recently displaced coaches could end up next season. [The Hockey News]

Why Justin Williams is essential to the Capitals’ playoff success. [ESPN]

What to expect from Golden Knights’ GM George McPhee and head coach Gerard Gallant going forward. [Puck Daddy]

If you’ve ever wondered what the Stars’ uniforms would look like as NFL uniforms, you’re in luck. [Fox Sports]

Zach Werenski keeps a handle on playoff jitters by talking to other rookies—which also means playing video games with Auston Matthews. [ESPN]

How Dion Phaneuf’s experience and attitude is helping the Senators. [Sportsnet]

And finally, just a little more Hitch for you.

Talking Points