Getting off to a good start, especially against a division rival, means everything.
DALLAS - It might be a clean slate for the Stars, but there’s definitely a collective sense of urgency to put up some numbers in the win column early.
That’s especially true with a matchup against a Central Division rival on tap tonight.
Head coach Pete DeBoer’s contingent went 18-4-4 against the division last season, including a perfect 3-0-0 against St. Louis, so a repeat performance would be the ideal scenario.
“These are all four-point swings. We were so good against our division last year. That’s why we almost won it there at the end. That’s our goal right now, to win the division, and you need to play well against your own division,” said goaltender Jake Oettinger, following Thursday's morning skate. “These are the teams we’re going to be seeing in the playoffs, so it starts tonight.”
Leaving points on the table now can certainly create a measure of discomfort later.
The Stars want to avoid any added pressure that comes with trying to make up ground down the stretch.
“That can take a toll on you, when you feel like every game in February or March is like the biggest game of the year. You don’t want that feeling,” insisted Oettinger. “Like last year, we basically led the division all year. You obviously want to be in the driver’s seat and it just starts with a good start. I think everyone’s prepared, everyone’s in good shape, and the coaches have done a good job of giving us what we need. It’s easy with the same coaching staff. We all know what they expect and what needs to be done, so it’s no secret we’re looking to get off to a good start.”
Defeating the Blues in front of a raucous crowd at American Airlines Center would make the upcoming team bonding trip to Palm Springs far more enjoyable, of course.
With the cross-country flight on the horizon on Friday, Oettinger is primed to accomplish that mission.
"I’m never going to turn down a team trip, so I'm definitely excited. Obviously we’re focused on tonight, get a win tonight, and then really get to enjoy the next few days with the guys, so I think it’s just motivation," said Oettinger. "That trip’s going to be a 10 out of 10 if we win tonight. We don’t want anything hanging over our heads, so we’ve got to get the job done first."
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