Dallas Stars hockey finally returns and the fight to make the roster has already begun. On Friday, September 13th, fans were allowed to watch the beginning of training camp and see their favorites on the ice again.
It was a rather low key off-season for the Stars as they did not have any drama with their free agents. Dallas takes the ice on September 16th against the Blues at the AAC to begin the preseason and the house is sure to be rocking.
Roster Decisions
Monty has already revealed some of the names who will be participating in the exhibition, including Denis Gurianov and Joe Pavelski. Expectations are high for Dallas. Dallas added veteran leadership with Corey Perry and Joe Pavelski. Some of the names in the camp made strong statements in Traverse City.
Due to the talent depth of the Stars, the team faces difficult roster decisions. Last season fans saw the team move on from Remi Elle and Gemel Smith early on. With so much young talent on the team, Dallas will have to make similar decisions this season. Dallas has many talented forwards who have been playing down in Cedar Park and seem ready to make the jump. Combined with the signing of new and old faces, it is a crowded roster making for a difficult decision for Monty and Jim Nill.
Young Talent Fighting for a Place
The team signed Joel Kiviranta to an entry-level contract earlier this season. Joel impressed many in Traverse City and will look to build on that success. Ty Dellandrea, the first-round pick in 2018, also has impressed recently and has received rave reviews from scouts. Denis Gurianov, another former first-round pick, has had an excellent camp and the time is now for him to make this team and stay on this team. Gurianov has shown promise with the Texas Stars but struggled at times last season in the NHL. This season feels like a make or breaks kind of season for Gurianov and his speed should be able to help him make the roster.
So many young players are fighting for a roster spot. The players who can withstand the pressure while producing will succeed. It is going to be a fun ride for fans to watch as the roster develops. Hockey has finally returned to Dallas.
It is good for fans to have Dallas Stars hockey return.
Featured Image: Ashley Landis, Staff Photographer Dallas Morning News
