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Dallas Stars Daily Links: Who Plays, Who Sits, And How The Stars Kick Off The Playoffs

Mike Heika discussed it all in his latest chat. Plus, end-of-season storylines, player updates, and more.

As they prepare for the Stanley Cup playoffs, the Dallas Stars are facing many questions, from which forward plays where to which of their two elite netminders gets the first start.

In his latest #HeyHeika Tweetchat, Mike Heika gave his take on those questions and more. Here’s how he sees the goaltending situation:

I think opponent and the health of Ben Bishop will play a key role. If Bishop feels great, the guess is he gets every game. He’s been just a tick better than Anton Khudobin this season, and while both have been fantastic, the team seems to play better in front of Bishop. (It might be his puck handling.)

Will we see more of Jason Dickinson with the top line?

I’m a fan of allowing the younger players the opportunity to earn a spot in the top six, so I think he looks great. He’s probably behind Roope Hintz in that I think coaches like Hintz better in the top six, but Dickinson doesn’t look out of place. Obviously, both need to be able to score goals more consistently, but I think that will come.

I’ve written this before, but I truly believe it -- the reason the Stars were able to produce home-grown talent like Jere Lehtinen, Jamie Langenbrunner, Brenden Morrow, Jussi Jokinen, Loui Eriksson, James Neal and Jamie Benn is because they gave those players the opportunity to play in the top six at a young age. I think allowing players like Hintz and Dickinson to regularly play in the top six and get power play time could be huge moving forward.

And how will Miro Heiskanen’s outstanding rookie season play out in the playoffs?

I thought he hit a wall in early March, but coaches said no. He has been fantastic in recent games and seems to have ice water in his veins. I think he’ll be fine in the playoffs.

There’s more at Mike’s place. [Dallas Stars]

Stars Stuff

Sean Shapiro and Owen Newkirk get to discuss the playoffs in their latest podcast.

And here’s your reminder that the Stars Insider presale happens today.

Here’s hoping there will be more and longer Dobby cellies in the new few weeks.

Around The League(s)

#Kill And Kill Again

  • The Chicago Blackhawks spoiled the St. Louis Blues’ bid for first place in the Central Division with a 4-3 victory in the shootout. [St. Louis Game Time]/

In the process, Patrick Kane set a new franchise milestone:

What changes lie ahead for the NHL’s much-disliked playoffs format? Don’t hold your breath waiting for an answer.

Meanwhile, there are still good stories to watch during the final week of the regular season.

Remember Scott Foster? Emily Kaplan catches up with the emergency goaltender who became a fan hero.

Greetings From Scenic Cedar Park (And Beautiful Boise)

The Texas Stars are looking to clinch their own playoffs berth over the next few games, so Military Appreciation Weekend should be extra-special.

Meanwhile, the goaltending is great all over, as Idaho Steelheads minder Tomas Sholl crowns a great rookie season.

Finally

Craig Cunningham is back on the ice. Truly, this is a week for miracles. Enjoy. [Yahoo! Canada Sports]

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