The Dallas Stars playoff run has so far gone as planned, as they moved past the first round, and have gotten off to a fast start in the second round matchup with Winnipeg. While a majority of the offensive production can be attributed to Mikko Rantanen, it has been Thomas Harley who has been the spark to light the scoring fire.
Thomas Harley has by far had his best and most memorable year at the NHL level. The 23-year-old blueliner played a pivotal role for Canada in the 4 Nations Face Off, while notching career highs in points and goals for the Stars. In the first eight games of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, Harley has brought that scoring touch along with him, as he has notched two goals and six points. His most memorable assist, thus far, came during the 3rd period in Game 7 of the previous matchup with the Avalanche, where he set up Mikko Rantanen with up ice en route to a wrap around goal to tie the game.
Mikko Rantanen Breaks Dallas Stars Playoff Record
“The moose is on the loose.”
While Harley has displayed an impressive offensive touch throughout the postseason, he has also continued to be a defensive presence as well. The Syracuse native has dished out 11 hits and 24 blocks. With both teams having the two best goaltenders from the United States in action, the defense in front will be most important as the series progresses.
Stars Tasked With Solving Connor Hellebuyck In Second Round
The <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/dallas-stars">Dallas Stars </a>have made it past the formidable Colorado Avalanche in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. While some might say they squeaked by the Avalanche after the series went the full seven games, the road to the Stanley Cup Final will not get easier with Connor Hellebuyck and the <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/dallas-stars/latest-news/stars-vs-jets-round-2-schedule-revealed">Winnipeg Jets</a> who are the next obstacle. The Stars will now have the difficult task of solving goaltender Connor Hellebuyck who practically owned the Stars during the regular season.
Thomas Harley and the Stars will hit the ice once again on Friday as they intend on taking a 2-0 series lead back with them to Dallas. Puck drop is scheduled for 8:30pm CDT, and can be viewed on TNT, TruTV, and MAX.