The Dallas Stars were within reach of the 2025 Stanley Cup finals but ran into a machine named the Edmonton Oilers. With little offseason movement, they stayed the course and brought back a determined group. However, they do have questions ahead of training camp. Will those questions be answered?
Can Oettinger have a bounce back after average playoff run?
Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger is one of the top goaltenders in the league. Since he arrived in the NHL, he has been consistent and showed tremendous determination. He has proven every season to be an elite goaltender and last season was no different. He posted a record of 36-18-4 with a 2.59 goals against average, a .909 save percentage, and two shutouts.
However, he struggled slightly in the playoffs, posting a 9-8 record, a 2.28 goals against average, and a .905 save percentage. For the Stars to get back to the Western Conference finals, they have to have the regular-season version of Oettinger show up. He is capable of doing so because he is immensely talented.
Can young prospects take on a larger role?
One name that could help pick up any slack on offense is Mavrik Bourque. The 23-year-old Bourque has played well during his limited action with the Stars and could be in for a big year with a spot now open. If he can have a big training camp he may be in line for a permanent roster spot this season.
The Plessisville, Quebec, Canada native produced 11 goals and 14 assists for 25 points in 73 games last season. In those numbers are 12 minutes of ice time, one game-winning goal, one power-play goal, and a +6. Career highs across the board may be on his bingo card this season.
Season outlook and bold prediction
After getting eliminated by the Oilers four games to one in the Western Conference Final, the Stars went to free agency to bring in depth to bolster their roster. They added defenseman Vladislav Kolyachonok in a trade with the Pittsburgh Penguins. They also added Colin Blackwell, Nathan Bastien, and NIls Lundkvist for the upcoming season.
Dallas may make a big trade if they are out of it by the trade deadline. Forward Jason Robertson had been rumored a lot the past couple of seasons but he will be dealt this season at the deadline. The Stars are not a young team and with this move could retool on the fly and add massive pieces in return. Keep an eye on how the Stars play this season heading into the trade deadline.