The Dallas Stars are set to face off against the San Jose Sharks tonight at the SAP Center, with both teams looking to secure important points as the season progresses. The matchup will start at 4 p.m. ET and can be viewed on Victory+ and NBCSCA.
The Stars, currently boasting a record of 26 wins, 10 losses, and 8 overtime losses, will take the ice with a projected lineup that includes offensive talents such as Matt Duchene, Wyatt Johnston, and Mikko Rantanen. Other key forwards include Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Mavrik Bourque, who are expected to make significant contributions to the team’s performance. The defensive pairing looks strong with Esa Lindell and Miro Heiskanen leading the charge. In goal, Casey DeSmith is anticipated to start, backed up by Jake Oettinger.
Dallas will be without some key players due to injuries, including Tyler Seguin (ACL), Lian Bichsel (lower body), and Jamie Benn (nose). Coach Glenn Gulutzan has noted that Benn did not skate in San Jose but is expected to join the team on their trip to Los Angeles this Sunday.
On the other side, the Sharks, who hold a record of 22 wins, 18 losses, and 3 overtime losses, are also contending with injuries. Their lineup features forwards William Eklund, Macklin Celebrini, and Igor Chernyshov, with Pavol Regenda and Tyler Toffoli adding experience to the offense. The Sharks are focused on their defensive strategies with Dmitry Orlov and Timothy Liljegren as key figures. Yaroslav Askarov is expected to start in goal, while Alex Nedeljkovic will serve as the backup.
Several Sharks players are sidelined, including Ty Dellandrea, Vincent Desharnais, Philipp Kurashev, Will Smith, and John Klingberg. However, Smith has skated in a non-contact jersey for the first time since his December injury, hinting at a possible return to the lineup soon. Additionally, Michael Misa has returned to practice after his stint at the IIHF World Junior Hockey Championship, giving the Sharks an option to bolster their ranks.
This matchup promises to be an exciting contest as both teams vie for crucial points in their respective league standings. Fans can look forward to an engaging game as the Stars aim to maintain their momentum while the Sharks seek to capitalize on their home advantage despite their injury concerns.