Earlier today, the Dallas Stars announced that defenseman Dillon Heatherington would be recalled from the Texas Stars as Connor Carrick heads to the injured reserve. Carrick did not play against the Toronto Maple Leafs last night after reportedly being unable to get a skate on after blocking a shot in the team’s loss to the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday afternoon.
In the midst of a six game road trip, the Stars likely recalled Heatherington to serve as injury insurance. With Marc Methot having missed a game recently due to soreness it makes sense to have an extra body available, should the Stars find themselves unable to dress six blueliners for a game coming up on the road.
The 23-year-old defenseman played in a total of six games in the NHL last season, mainly in the latter half of the year when Dallas was struggling and needed new blood in the lineup. He recorded 1 assist and 26 penalty minutes in those games, which included two fights.
With the Texas Stars last season, Heatherington recorded 3 goals and 14 assists in 55 games. He also went on to help contribute to the Calder Cup Final run by adding three more assists in 21 playoff games. So far this season, Heatherington scored 1 goal and 3 assists in 10 games in the AHL.
Coupled with Gavin Bayreuther dealing with an injury himself, Heatherington’s recall is a test of the defensive depth of the Stars’ whole system.
Dallas will take on the Washington Capitals tomorrow night. With the team rolling in on a two-game win streak, it seems unlikely that Heatherington will get into the lineup tomorrow night, barring any unknown injuries. (The team cancelled practice today and injury updates on game-time decisions will likely be known at morning skate in the morning.)