After missing the playoffs a year ago, the Dallas Stars rocketed to the best record in the Western Conference in 2016, and while their offense continues to be a major part of their success, their improvement at the defensive end cannot be overlooked.
Head coach Lindy Ruff attributes part of that improvement to three key additions from the offseason - forward Patrick Sharp, defenseman Johnny Oduya and goaltender Antti Niemi - who all won Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks.
"That's the impact I think we were hoping for," Ruff said, according to Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News. "I think their impact in the regular season helped us, and now, I think it's even bigger."
Meanwhile, it was the team's youth that provided the boost in Friday's Game 1 victory over the St. Louis Blues - with rookie forward Radek Faksa recording a goal, assist, and three hits, while first-year blue-liner Stephen Johns added three hits of his own in 13 minutes of ice time.
"They've brought a physicality, they've brought a hardness to our lineup that I think was needed," Ruff said of the young duo. "We were getting away with high-end speed and skill, and I think they've brought a hardness to the adjustments that the league has played against us.
"We've been able to physically come in and win more battles and create more situations that have helped us win games."
The Stars will need to continue to keep the puck out of their net if they hope to knock the Blues out in the second round. Game 2 is scheduled for Sunday.
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