NHL Season Preview: Dallas Stars

Dallas Stars



Last Season's standings: record- 53-23-6 for 112 points. The Stars finished the 05-06 season in 1st in the Pacific Division, 2nd in the Western Conference.

In: Darryl Sydor D (via trade w/ Tampa Bay Lightning); Patrik Stefan F (via trade w/ Atlanta Thrashers); Jaroslav Modry D (via trade w/ Atlanta Thrashers); Mike Smith G; Matthew Barnaby F (prev. team: Chicago Blackhawks); Jeff Halpern F (prev. team: Washington Capitals); Eric Lindros F (prev. team: Toronto Maple Leafs); Steve Ott F; Trevor Daley D; Junior Lessard F

Out: Niko Kapanen F (via trade w/ Atlanta Thrashers); Willie Mitchell D (new team: Vancouver Canucks); Jason Arnott F (new team: Nashville Predators); Patrick Traverse D (new team: San Jose Sharks); Dan Jancevski D (new team: Montreal Canadiens)

Season Outlook: Good. The Stars took a huge risk this off-season by signing oft-injured Eric Lindros. He is one bad hit away from ending his career due to concussion issues. In goal, the Stars are solid as Turco is coming off a solid regular season. However, he's yet to prove himself in the playoffs. This season, the team won't necessarily be judged on their regular season performance, it will be the playoffs where the Stars season success will be looked at. T hat said, up front the Stars look solid as they have exciting sophomore Jussi Jokinen who will be flanked by Barnaby and Stu Barnes. Lindros will center a capable 2nd line featuring Jere Lehtinen and Steve Ott. On defense the Stars have veterand Janne Niinima and Sergei Zubov. The rest of their defense consists of youngsters and journeymen. I believe this is where the Stars achilles heel lies.

Season Prediction: The Stars will take 1st in the Pacific Division, 3rd in the Western Conference.