The Dallas Stars will look to maintain their dominance at home as they host the Toronto Maple Leafs on Wednesday. The Stars are an impressive 13-3-0 at American Airlines Center this season and are coming off a 3-1 win against the Washington Capitals on Monday. Jake Oettinger boasts stellar home statistics (12-2-0, 1.92 goals-against average, .928 save percentage). He’s expected to start again as Dallas aims to extend its success on special teams. Their penalty kill is a perfect 10-for-10 on their homestand.
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Toronto is fresh off a 5-3 win over the Buffalo Sabres on Sunday when captain John Tavares scored a natural hat trick to lead the team. Nicholas Robertson chipped in with a goal and an assist, setting up a showdown between him and his older brother, Jason Robertson. The Maple Leafs will be without goaltender Anthony Stolarz, who is sidelined for 4-6 weeks following a knee procedure.
Item One: John Tavares Has Been in Vintage Form
At 34 years old, Tavares is proving he still has plenty left in the tank. His hat trick against the Sabres, his second hat trick of the season, is a testament to his scoring prowess and leadership. With the burden of formal leadership removed, Tavares seems to have a renewed jump. He remains a key player for the Maple Leafs, showing that his impact goes far beyond the salary cap and contract discussions.
His consistent play solidifies his role as a key part of the team’s core. Fans should expect more of Tavares’ clutch performances as the Maple Leafs push toward their goals this season. He seems to have a natural chemistry with fellow veteran Max Pacioretty.
Item Two: Fraser Minten: Sent Down to the AHL
Fraser Minten has been reassigned to the American Hockey League (AHL) Toronto Marlies, a move that signals the return of David Kampf to the lineup tonight against the Stars. Minten, 20, has played 11 games for the Maple Leafs this season, scoring two goals and two assists while averaging 12:47 of ice time.
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Although he’s being sent down for now, Minten remains a key part of the Maple Leafs’ depth and will likely be the first call-up should the team need reinforcements later in the season. He showed he could be a valuable part of the team during his time on NHL ice.
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