It has been a strange trip, indeed.
The Stars last season saw the NHL shut down in March because of COVID-19 concerns, were part of the restart for the playoffs, and eventually advanced to the Stanley Cup Final, losing to Tampa Bay in six games. They came back for the shortened 2020-21 NHL season in January, and promptly had a virus outbreak that forced them to postpone the first four games of their season and also sidelined 17 players for some form of quarantine.
Now, they will jump into their season opener Friday at home against the Nashville Predators (2-1-0) with the hope of finding some normalcy. On one hand, they are in an awkward place. On the other, coach Rick Bowness is just happy to have a real game on the schedule again.
Happy homecoming: Stars ready to take next step in 'redemption year'
Excited to be back on home ice for the first time in more than 10 months, Dallas is itching for puck drop
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Bowness reveals who will serve as alternate captains
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Pavelski on why this opening night will be special
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Lindell on being back on home ice to open new season