The Stars are facing significant challenges as they head into their next game, especially with Tyler Seguin’s recent injury. Seguin, a 33-year-old forward, suffered an ACL injury during a match against the New York Rangers. This injury is particularly impactful given his remarkable contribution this season, where he has recorded 17 points—comprising 7 goals and 10 assists—over 27 games, along with a plus-10 rating.
Impact of Seguin’s Absence
Seguin’s leadership and performance on the ice have been invaluable. Stars coach Glen Gulutzan emphasized Seguin’s absence is felt significantly. “Not only the veteran leadership but right away you could feel the impact on the ice,” Gulutzan stated. Seguin’s exceptional faceoff percentage on the right side showcases his importance, adding another layer to his loss.
Adapting to New Line Combinations
With Seguin sidelined, Stars captain Jamie Benn has shifted positions to right wing, skating alongside Roope Hintz and Jason Robertson. In a recent match against the New Jersey Devils, Benn scored two assists, exemplifying his adaptability. “It’s been like that right from the first game. It’s crazy how many injuries we’ve had,” he remarked, reflecting on the team’s need to adjust continually.
Future Lineup Changes
- Jamie Benn is likely to remain on the right wing.
- Benn has played various roles this season, emphasizing team flexibility.
- Sam Steel, Mavrik Bourque, and Colin Blackwell may see increased ice time in Seguin’s absence.
The potential return of veteran center Matt Duchene adds some hope. Duchene has been recovering from an upper-body injury sustained on October 18 and is currently listed as day-to-day. Coach Gulutzan indicated that Duchene’s progression has shown promise, which could enhance the team’s offense further.
As the Stars prepare for their upcoming games, the focus remains on resilience and adaptability. Benn expressed his gratitude for his talented teammates, stating, “I’m pretty lucky. I get to play with 20 great players in here.” The question remains: how will the Stars respond to these lineup changes as they strive for success in the face of adversity?
