Jason Chen and Michael Amato discuss a first-round matchup between the Stars and Golden Knights in the 2024 NHL Playoffs.
The Sleepers and Keepers fantasy hockey podcast hosts Jason Chen and Michael Amato think this is arguably the toughest series to call in the Western Conference.
Despite winning the conference title, the Stars must face a Golden Knights squad that's going to ice a lineup worth roughly $100 million. Tomas Hertl has returned to the lineup, Noah Hanifin was an excellent pickup and Mark Stone is expected to return, possibly in Game 1.
But the Stars have plenty of offensive depth, including Wyatt Johnston, coming off a breakout season, and Logan Stankoven, one of their top prospects and top scorer in the minors.
The coaching battle will be interesting, too, between Peter DeBoer and Bruce Cassidy, who succeeded DeBoer in Vegas and ended up winning the Cup. It was DeBoer's Stars, however, who were the far more consistent group this season and they've rightfully earned home-ice advantage.
The Central Division has the toughest path to the Stanley Cup, but the Stars remain the top pick to emerge from the West.
Check out the full episode below on your preferred platform.