With just 19 games left on the schedule and three points out of a playoff spot, each game is important. Can't get around that fact. And while we still have a couple weeks left before we break out the true "MUST WIN" label, games against teams between them and eighth place are crucial. Like tonight in Dallas.
The Stars are in 10th place, just one point ahead of the Blues who are tied with Anaheim for 11th. If the Blues win in regulation, they could be tied for ninth, just one point out of the final playoff spot.
No pressure.
It will be interesting to see what getting out from under trade speculation will do for players like Brad Boyes, Paul Kariya and Carlo Colaiacovo. Now that they know where they will be for at least the rest of this season, they might actually relax a little and perform. Plus it's a road game, so there's a decent chance Kariya will score (yes we know he has two goals at home -- in one game out of 32 home contests).
We'll even ignore the whole Steve Ott thing and not rip on the Stars for giving him a $3 million-a-year extension. Fools.
Expect the bearded Chris Mason to have the start in goal. He played well in Phoenix on Tuesday. Hopefully a few fans will mention to David Backes and Erik Johnson congratulations on the silver medal. That'll piss 'em off something fierce.
Big game folks. Plus this is the arena where one of our friends can get seats behind the bench and has Game Time stickers (how's that Project Mayhem coming, folks?). Now is not the time to fall down on the job. Comment like the playoffs depend on it. This is your game day thread. Caress it. Love it.