Stars chase eighth straight win against Predators, with trade rumors swirling around Steven Stamkos. Oettinger returns for crucial divisional showdown.
One of the biggest storylines surrounding the Dallas Stars in recent days has been trade speculation linking them to Nashville Predators veteran forward Steven Stamkos.
Reports indicate that when preparing for the possibility of a deadline move, Stamkos created a shortlist of preferred destinations, and Dallas was among them. On Saturday night, he will get a firsthand look at a potential future team as the Stars host the Nashville Predators in a primetime divisional showdown.
The matchup carries significant momentum for both sides. Dallas enters the contest riding a seven-game winning streak and looking to make it eight, while Nashville aims to build on a win in its first game back from the Olympic break. This will mark the third and final meeting of the season between the division rivals, with the Stars winning both previous matchups on the road.
Now back on home ice in the Lone Star State, Dallas has an opportunity to complete the season-series sweep. The Stars are expected to have a rested Jake Oettinger in net, making his first start since returning from Olympic duty, which only strengthens their position. With trade rumors swirling and two Central Division opponents battling for positioning, Saturday’s clash has all the ingredients of a high-stakes showdown.
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Dallas Stars’ Expected Line Combinations vs. Nashville (Saturday)
Robertson - Johnston - Bourque
Steel - Duchene - Benn
Erne - Hryckowian - Blackwell
Back - Hyry - Bastian
Lindell - Heiskanen
Harley - Lundkvist
Bichsel- Petrovic
Oettinger
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