The NHL will select their initial All-Star representative from each team tomorrow, and here are four Stars players who could be headed to Toronto in early February.
It is no secret the Stars' top line has been dominating the league for years. Though off to a slow start, the combination of Jason Robertson's hockey IQ, Joe Pavelski's tipping game, and Roope Hintz's speed makes it difficult for other teams to defend. The three of them should be a top consideration.
However, after signing a one-year deal with Dallas in free agency, Matt Duchene has had a resurgence in his game and should be considered a dark horse candidate.
Most likely choice: Jason Robertson
Last season, Robertson was the lone representative for the Stars at the All-Star Game, and for good reason - he finished the season with 46 goals, 63 assists, and 109 points. This season, he is currently on a point-per-game pace with 37 points in 36 games played and currently leads the team in assists and points.
Though Robertson is only on-pace to score 84 points, he has put up 10 points in his last seven games, and it looks like he could be heating up.
Robertson's ability to score unconventional goals, along with his hockey IQ, is what will likely get him to the All-Star Game.
Possible vote-ins: Joe Pavelski and Roope Hintz
Is there a hockey player that has aged better than Pavelski? At 39 years old, he is just two seasons removed from a career-best of 81 points and his most recent All-Star appearance.
In his 18th season, he has no signs of slowing down skill-wise. He has 14 goals and 20 assists and is currently on pace for 77 points.
Pavelski is in the waning years of his career, and another showing at the All-Star Game to put his tip-in ability on display would be the perfect tribute to his incredible career.
Hintz continues to be one of the most underrated centers in the league. The Stars forward has been snubbed in the Selke Award voting, only collecting a few votes yearly. He has also never been to the All-Star game.
Coming off a recent hat trick, Hintz leads the team with 15 goals and is on pace for 79 points, giving him his third 70+ point season in a row.
His elite speed and size would be showcased on an even higher level in the 3-on-3 style of the All-Star game.
Dark horse: Matt Duchene
Duchene, who the Nashville Predators bought out, has not only returned to form but is also performing better than he did last year in Nashville. He would be looking for his third appearance at the All-Star game.
While centering a line of Tyler Seguin and Mason Marchment, Duchene has elevated their numbers while also potting 11 goals and 32 points himself. He is on pace for 74 points, the second-best in his career.
Duchene's best skills are his smooth hands, ability to easily move the puck around defenders, and speed. Also, with six game-winning goals, his ability to finish in big moments is a close second.
The NHL is announcing a player from each of the 32 teams tomorrow, and fans can vote in 12 more of their choice.
Make sure you bookmark THN's Dallas Stars site for the latest news, exclusive interviews, breakdowns, and so much more.
- Follow Taylor on Twitter: @dallasstarstay