This summer, the Dallas Stars made one of the biggest splashes in NHL free agency. A surefire move that would help the team with depth scoring, and goals past 60 minutes. The acquisition of well known goal scoring veteran, Matt Duchene. Today we are going to examine his production this far. Keeping in mind that we’re only six games into an 82 game schedule.
Depth scoring box checked
This summer, Stars’ GM Jim Nill wanted more goal scoring apart from The Avengers line. Bringing in Duchene was the best possible move to make. While other teams strategize to shut down Jason Robertson, Joe Pavelski and Roope Hintz. Adding another veteran guy who has a history of finding the back of the net is a plus for Dallas. Especially in times when longtime Stars Jamie Benn, and Tyler Seguin hit a rough patch during the regular, or postseason.
Even though it’s early, Duchene is already providing in the points department. The goals will inevitably come. They always do. We’re also only in October where the Stars, and the rest of the NHL are figuring things out.
He’s tending the right way
Most attention on Duchene will naturally be on his goals, and points. He currently has only two points this far. An assist in each of the team’s last two games. Their next game is on Tuesday, Halloween the Stars host the Columbus Blue Jackets. They will be a team whose close to the bottom of the league in defense, and goaltending.
Another reason to Duchene’s ‘slow start’ has to do with the goaltending he’s gone up against already. Joseph Woll of the Toronto Maple Leafs is becoming one of the league’s best. Jordan Binnington brings his best game when his St. Louis Blues play Dallas.
You want Duchene in the spring
When you’re playing hockey past 82 games, you want veteran guys on your roster. Depth scoring was a short coming the further Dallas got into last seasons playoffs. The most reliable veteran goal scorer the Stars got is 39 year old Joe Pavelski. He could use some more help.
When you look back to the 2020 playoffs, the Stars had Corey Perry, and Alexander Radulov. Both of those vets scored timely goals, and game winners. Like this shot that kept the Stars alive in the Stanley Cup Finals.
Photo credit: Archie Carpenter/UPI
Duchene has that same potential of scoring in the second half of the season. He doesn’t need to lead the team in points. Dallas has The Avengers line to handle that. He just needs to provide depth, and timely scoring to help Dallas win Stanley Cup number two.
Featured photo: nhl.com
