Stars at Blues morning open thread: Winter Classic hangover or just the Blues?

After Thursday night's loss, I saw various and sundry forms of grumbling on social media. They fell into a few categories: "Winter Classic hangover," "they're all sick," "Blues gonna Blues."

Listen, it's hard to get pumped up for an indoor game against an Eastern Conference opponent that you have absolutely no history with past Jay McClement, Ty Rattie, and (if you stretch things) Rod Brind'Amour. It's also hard to get going when half of your team can't breathe. God knows me dragging myself into work with a head cold feels like the end of the world. I can't imagine how playing a hockey game feels.

The Blues have had issues  consistently playing a complete game this season for what seems like the 5th year in a row. That came out Thursday night, with the Blues going up 2-1 against Carolina and then losing 4-2. It's been illustrated multiple times this year.

Playing a fellow Central Division opponent is not the time to show inconsistencies, and that's who they play tonight. The Dallas Stars are second to last in the Central, but they're five points behind the Blues. Padding is never a bad thing.

This is your morning open thread. Check back later on for a Lighting the Lamp from Rick, your game preview, projected rosters, and the GDT. While you're waiting, head to Defending Big D and say hi to the great people over there.