"The team has been playing great," Methot said. "Last game (6-0 loss to Vancouver), that happens. That's not something you've got to dwell on. The general play I have been watching from the stands has been really great. It takes pressure off me and enabling me to do all the rehab that I've been doing and getting healthy."
The defense pairs were mixed in Tuesday's practice, but Methot spent a lot of time skating with Stephen Johns. As for his role upon his return, Methot said anything would do; he just wants to be back to playing.
"I am willing to accept any role. I don't care what it is, whether it just be killing penalties and playing less minutes, it doesn't matter. I just want to help the team win. I am just excited to get back, and hopefully my return is sooner than later, so I can start helping out the team and feel like a hockey player again."
Chances are it is going to take Methot some time to get up to speed once he returns, and the Stars are hopeful he can be a key piece down the stretch.
"Under normal circumstances, he's a top-four defenseman. You are adding a free player now, and we realize it is going to take some time," said Hitchcock. "Our goal is that he is a top-four guy. It allows us to have lefty-righty (pairs on defense) going if we get it.
"We'll see how he looks game to game, but right now we need to get him in a game and see how he feels after the game. He's a minute-munching defenseman that plays against top players every shift, so that is a good sign for us. "
