Our friends over at Defending Big D have posted their preview of tonight’s game between the Blackhawks and Stars. Here is what they have to say about the Stars. Be sure to stop on by for not only their take on the Hawks, but all kinds of information on tonight’s enemy. They are one of most informative blogs on SB Nation.
The Stars:
After defeating the Red Wings in Detroit on Tuesday the team ran into technical problems with the chartered plane, and remained in Michigan through late Wednesday afternoon. The result was that Glen Gulutzan lost a day of practice and the players got back to their homes nearly 20 hours after originally scheduled.
The big story from Tuesday was that Cody Eakin was moved from the fourth line to the second, centering Ray Whitneyand Michael Ryder while assisting on both goals. The added potency on offense was exactly what the Stars needed and we’ll look for it to continue tonight.
Tom Wandell, who’s role was usurped by Eakin, looked the part on an energy line with Ryan Garbutt and Reilly Smith. The Stars hope this look gives them four productive lines in the continued absence of center Jamie Benn amidst a protracted contract negotiation.
The only lineup question late Wednesday night is whether or not Aaron Rome (groin) will get into the Stars’ lineup for the first time. Jordie Benn and Brenden Dillon have performed above and beyond expectations for un-drafted rookies in a condensed season, but Rome appears ready to join the lineup. Will Gulutzan switch up his pairings on the heels of a win? Check back with us after morning skate for more details.
Expected Stars’ lineup:
Eriksson-Roy-Jagr
Whitney-Eakin-Ryder
Morrow-Fiddler-Nystrom
Garbutt-Wandell-SmithRobidas-Goligoski
Daley-Benn
Larsen-DillonInjuries: Ray Whitney has a banged up foot but is expected to go. Aaron Rome (groin) is questionable. Derek Roy appeared to have suffered a shoulder injury in Tuesday’s contest but the nature of the discomfort is unconfirmed and he’s assumed available for this one tonight.