High anticipation is on the table for the Dallas Stars this season. The first 2 preseason games of 2023-2024 did not disappoint so far. Two blowout wins started off the schedule with the scores being 7-0 and 6-1. The defense and goaltending are good while the offense is great. Outscoring opponents 13-1 over the first 2 games is something to look forward to. Things are looking up so far for the Stars. The expectations now shift towards a Stanley Cup.
First Game vs. Arizona: 7-0
Playing at their AHL affiliate’s arena meant a lot to fans in Cedar Park. The Stars brought an obvious fired-up energy to the first game, outshooting the Arizona Coyotes 50-11. Logan Stankoven netted 2 goals while the Stars routed the Coyotes 7-0. Rookies Antonio Stranges and Mavrik Bourque made their marks. Stranges with a goal and assist alongside Bourque with 2 assists shows the Stars’ future is bright.
Second Game vs. Minnesota: 6-1
New upgrades made their way to the American Airlines Center. The new enhanced jumbotron greeted Stars fans back at the American Airlines Center for the first time since Game 6 of the Western Conference Final. A 1-0 Minnesota lead was no match for the Stars who stormed back with 6 unanswered. Evgenii Dadonov scored twice while Scott Wedgewood held the fort in goal. These first two games are a bright stepping stone moving forward on a season with lifted expectations.
A Special Year
High hopes are the mantra for this season. The Stars are top 10 in several lists for Stanley Cup contenders. The talent is all throughout the lineup. Miro Heiskanen holding down the defense while the big three light the lamp. Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Joe Pavelski haven’t even played yet and the Stars already have 13 goals in 2 preseason games. It’s also worth noting that Jamie Benn’s brother Jordie is on a professional tryout with the team, remaking his debut with the Stars again.
The Stars are off to a great start so far with their play. The main guys will begin making their preseason debut shortly. The Stars have a valid chance to win the Stanley Cup this year. This city is aching for a champion and the Stars are a promising team. 82 games are up on the schedule with this being an exciting season.
Photo Credit: Dallas Stars X
