The Stars’ “a little for a lot” mentality means they’re ready to do whatever it takes, writes Nick Cotsonika.
Before the Dallas Stars’ 2023-24 season began, they decided what it would be about. They summed it up with a slogan that hangs over the dressing-room door: “A Little Less For A Lot More.”
For his latest piece, NHL.com columnist Nick Cotsonika talked with the players and head coach Pete DeBoer about what that means – literally and metaphorically:
“I think it means that you might need to give up a little bit for the common goal of the team,” center Wyatt Johnston said. “Obviously, with a team like this, when we have so many great players, you might have to sacrifice whatever it is, maybe some power play time, whatever it is. Everyone’s in a different situation.
“But I think the message is, it’s for the team. Whatever happens, whatever we’re doing, it’s for the team. So, I think we’ve really kind of bought into that.”
We’ve all seen the results of that pledge, but some of the stats remain fairly stunning:
The Stars didn’t have an individual among the top 33 goal-scorers in the NHL. But they had eight players with 20 goals for the first time in franchise history: Johnston (32), [Roope] Hintz (30), [Jason] Robertson (29), [Joe] Pavelski (27), [Tyler] Seguin (25), [Matt] Duchene (25), [Mason] Marchment (22) and [Jamie] Benn (21).
“We all had strong years anyway, and as a team, it’s just a lot of fun to play,” Duchene said. “The cool thing is, when you’re maybe not out there in situations you’re used to being out there, you’re watching great players do their thing, so you’re OK with being a cheerleader during those times. I think what’s made it really easy for everybody is just the talent we have. Watching our teammates play is a pleasure to watch.”
You can read the whole thing at the big site. [NHL]
Stars Stuff
For your viewing pleasure, here’s a video that helped inform the article.
The Story So Far – Round 1
- The New York Rangers took a 2-0 series lead with a 4-3 victory over the Washington Capitals; K’Andre Miller got the game-winner with his short-handed goal. [Blueshirt Banter]
- Not to be outdone, the Florida Panthers leave Sunrise two up on the Tampa Bay Lightning; Carter Verhaeghe got another GWG in the Cats’ 3-2 overtime victory. [Raw Charge]
- A four-goal second period propelled the Colorado Avalanche to a 5-2 win against the Winnipeg Jets, tying their series 1-1. [Puck Yeti]
- And the Nashville Predators took advantage of Thatcher Demko’s absence by shelling the Vancouver Canucks 4-1 to even their series. [On The Forecheck]
Around The Leagues
Take a deep dive into Monday’s game (if you dare).
Meanwhile, the Rangers celebrity-fan game remains strong.
Greetings From Scenic Cedar Park – And Beautiful Boise
The Texas Stars roared to a 6-3 Game 1 win over the Manitoba Moose. A victory tomorrow night means the T-Stars move on.
And what more can be said about Mavrik Bourque? We’re liable to find out.
Finally
The Stars WAGs have the Stars swag. You’re welcome.