Ask Lindy Ruff if forward Gemel Smith has been a surprise this season and the Dallas Stars coach will tell you he wasn't even sure where Smith was on the depth chart coming into training camp.
"Totally unexpected," Ruff said. "Was he on the radar? Not at all."
But Smith is on the radar now. And making an impact for the Stars. He had a big night in Sunday's 4-3 overtime loss at Chicago, scoring his first two NHL goals including the game-tying tally with 1:20 left in regulation to get the Stars a point in the game, setting up in the slot and redirecting a John Klingberg shot into the net. That put the Stars ahead 2-0 in the game with a goal on a shorthanded breakaway.
"The speed has created opportunities," Ruff said. "He's played well defensively. He got himself in a great spot and redirecting that last one. Every game he is getting two or three opportunities. It was great to see. He had the first opportunity of the game."
Smith, who has three points (two goals, one assist) in seven games, played a season-high 16:17 Sunday night and registered a season-best six shots on goal.
"I am just taking it day by day and every day I am getting more comfortable," Smith said. "I am starting to play with a little more skill than I normally do. Hopefully, we can win, and I can be a part of that."
Seizing the Opportunity
Stars rookie Gemel Smith making the most of his first shot at the NHL
© Bill Smith/Getty Images
