Dallas Stars Have Something Special in Depth Forwards
With injuries plaguing their roster, the Dallas Stars gambled by starting some depth forwards on Tuesday night. It ended up paying off in a big way.
Forwards on the Dallas Stars are the highlight of the team, without a doubt. They are the central focus for the largely offensive-minded club and their role on the team is incredibly important.
When thinking about forwards, though, it’s often Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin, Jason Spezza and a handful of other players that come to mind. That makes sense being that they are at the forefront of the team and the league, but depth players arguably have just as important of a role on the team.
They’ll be an important group for Dallas this season and there are a few reasons why they’ll be so successful this year.
Ability to Step Up
Depth players are talented, but might lack the flair of first or second line players. They have a skill set that works for them and their role is one they now backwards and forwards.
Dallas has, unfortunately, already dealt with a number of injuries this preseason and a few have carried over into the start of the regular season. While that is disappointing for the team and the players themselves, it makes room for opportunity.
Players like Adam Cracknell have been given a shot at the big leagues for the Stars and he has taken advantage. No. 27 scored his first goal as a Dallas Star on opening night last Thursday to help Dallas defeat the Anaheim Ducks, 4-2.
That wouldn’t have happened had players not been injured. While there is certainly no hoping for injuries down the Stars’ line-up, it’s promising to see depth players that can step up. That’s something the Stars will look to continue moving forward.
Speed and Commitment
Dallas is a fast team with good skating ability and the depth forwards follow suit in that regard. Their speed allows for them to be more defensively responsible and gives them an opportunity to make it back to their zone efficiently.
Speed also allows for the depth forwards to keep up with the more well-known players on the team. Head coach Lindy Ruff changes up the lines quite often, even a few times in one night, so the ability to skate well is vital on a team as fast as Dallas.
Depth forwards are also great on the Stars because they are committed to their role. They know their place on the team and they aren’t trying to be anyone else. That level of dedication allows for them to find the energy to get back when they’re nearing the end of their shift. It gives them the chance to stay in the line-up even after injured players return.
Ultimately, their commitment to the team and their game is the main reason they get the opportunities they do.
Final Thoughts
While depth players won’t be scoring all of Dallas’ goals this season, their role is one that need not be forgotten. They really fill a lot of void in the Stars’ line-up and without them Dallas couldn’t be as successful as they’ve been.
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