The hidden weakness that could actually derail the Dallas Stars' Stanley Cup dream
Photo credit: Blakcout Dallas
The Dallas Stars look like one of the NHL's most complete teams heading into 2025-26, with stars such as Jason Robertson, Miro Heiskanen, Roope Hintz, and Mikko Rantanen making up a powerhouse core.
Yet even great rosters have flaws, and one weakness could quietly derail Dallas's Stanley Cup chase if it is not addressed.
While the Stars were praised for their defensive structure, their playoff exit last spring showed that one mistake at the wrong time can undo months of consistency.
Depth scoring, grit, and special teams remain potential issues for the Dallas Stars
During the Western Conference Final, Dallas's penalty kill cracked under pressure, surrendering two quick goals in Game 4 against Edmonton. As the Dallas Morning News reported,
«Even the Stars' greatest strength let them down in Game 4, and that collapse changed the series.»
You can read the full game recap on the Dallas News website.
Physicality also lingers as a concern. According to Dallas Sports Nation, the Stars ranked near the bottom of the league in hits last season. As they explained:
«Getting bigger and meaner was a clear focus this offseason, but Dallas still has to prove it can survive heavy playoff hockey.»
More details are available at Dallas Sports Nation.
Finally, depth scoring has been inconsistent. When Robertson and Rantanen are neutralized, Dallas sometimes struggles to find secondary offense. That can turn a seven-game series into a grind where the Stars' biggest names must shoulder too much of the load.
The Stars have the top-end talent to win the West, but the margin is razor-thin. If the penalty kill falters, or if physical teams wear them down, the Cup chase could stall again.
Personally, I think this season will hinge on whether Dallas finds scoring balance behind its stars.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 9 | 22 ANSWERS The hidden weakness that could actually derail the Dallas Stars' Stanley Cup dream Which weakness is most likely to derail the Dallas Stars' Stanley Cup run? | ||
| Depth scoring drying up | 7 | 31.8 % |
| Lack of physical toughness | 9 | 40.9 % |
| Special teams breaking down | 4 | 18.2 % |
| None, this team is built to win | 2 | 9.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
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