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Dallas Stars Daily Links: Living The Dream

Posted on by George Delanjian
Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Esa Lindell is livin’ man, L-I-V-I-N.

It’s been quite the year for Dallas Stars defenseman Esa Lindell – from signing a long-term contract, to participating in the Global Series in his home country of Finland, then being selected to represent them in February’s 4 Nations Face-Off. It’s become clear that Lindell is cementing himself as one of the Stars’ all-time defenders with his impact on and off the ice.

DallasStars.com writer Josh Clark put together a nice piece covering our blueline leader, from his style of play, to his impact on the ice, to being one of the ambassadors of Finnish hockey not only for the Stars, but for the NHL.

In reference to his style of play, Lindell can be quoted saying:

“I’ve always personally wanted to be under the radar,” Lindell said. “I don’t want to be in the spotlight or in the media. I just try to work hard and want to be out there, especially when the game is on the line. Blocking shots, boxing out, and playing hard and physical to frustrate the opponent. If they hate to play against me, I know I’ve done something right.”

And in regards to his impact on the ice:

“Lindell’s plus-111 career rating currently sits as the third best mark in franchise history. Much like the Stars’ famous Finn in Jere Lehtinen, he’s a defensive ‘Mr. Fix-It.’ Lindell is not only a steadying presence in the Stars’ back end, but he often finds a way to cover up other issues that may arise.

Stars’ assistant coach Alain Nasreddine had this to say, amongst other positive things:

“He’s got a high hockey IQ just knowing what the next play will be…you can see how many plays he disrupts or kills. Some of that stuff you can’t really teach, but he’s really a stabilizing force in the back end for us.”

When Lindell was asked about his experience in the Global Series that took place in Finland:

“The Finland trip was a dream come true for myself personally. To be able to play there and show the country to my teammates and organization and what hockey means in Finland was great.”

You can read the rest of Clark’s article here.

Stars Stuff

I got nothing Otter than this:

Around The Central

It’s a day off for the Central Division after a near full-slate last night, but here are a couple news clips relating to our Central Division friends:

Based on Blackwood’s skillset and the Avalanche’s needs, on paper this should be a happy marriage:

The Minnesota Wild have activated Jakob Lauko yesterday, who has been out since the end of November. His return will provide a competitive boost to the bottom six while also contributing on the penalty kill.

The World of Chel

Shatty hanging up the skates with a Stanley Cup and All-Star appearance under his belt:

Who do YOU think will take home the Norris Memorial Trophy? Anybody not on the list who you would consider?

Giving Wedgewall some love here!

Finally

Here’s your chance to skate with Victor E. Green this Friday!

Image source: NHL
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