Matt Duchene’s Big Night Lifts Stars Over Blues, But Questions Linger
After a weekend stuck indoors due to weather, you might’ve expected the Dallas Stars to come out a little sluggish. Instead, they hit the ice in St. Louis with energy-and just enough execution-to edge the Blues 4-3 in a game that saw Matt Duchene remind everyone exactly what he’s capable of when healthy and dialed in.
This wasn’t just another win over a Central Division rival. It was the kind of gritty, late-game performance that can give a team confidence as they push deeper into the season. But while the Stars got the job done on the scoreboard, there are still a few areas that need tightening up if they want to make noise come playoff time.
Let’s break it down.
1. Dutchy Delivers in a Big Way
Matt Duchene has been waiting for a night like this. After battling through a tough stretch to start the season-including lingering concussion symptoms-Duchene finally broke through in a big way. He scored twice in just 40 seconds during the second period, showing off the hands, speed, and instincts that made him such a valuable offseason pickup.
His second goal, which stood as the game-winner, came in the final minute-his second late-game winner in as many games. That’s the kind of clutch play Dallas has been missing at times this year, and Duchene’s resurgence could be a massive boost heading into the second half of the season.
When Duchene is healthy and confident, he adds a dynamic element to the Stars’ forward group. If this is a sign of things to come, Dallas may not need to go hunting for scoring help at the trade deadline after all.
2. Physical Edge Still Missing
One hit. That’s all the Stars registered in the first period. For a team that wants to be considered a serious playoff contender, that number jumps off the stat sheet-and not in a good way.
The Blues came out with more physicality and set the tone early. Dallas, meanwhile, looked hesitant to engage.
Without a consistent physical presence, the Stars struggled to impose their will, especially in the corners and along the boards. That allowed St.
Louis to control stretches of the game and dictate the pace.
Lian Bichsel’s eventual return could help in this department-his physical style is well-known-but until then, someone has to step up and bring a little more bite to the lineup. You can’t afford to get pushed around in this league, especially against divisional opponents.
3. Struggles with Zone Time
Another concern? The Stars had a tough time getting extended offensive zone time.
They couldn’t consistently set up or generate dangerous chances at even strength. Yes, they cashed in on the power play, which is encouraging, but five-on-five play is where games are often won or lost-especially in the postseason.
The Blues did a good job clogging up the neutral zone and forcing the Stars to dump and chase, and Dallas rarely got to their forecheck in full force. That lack of sustained pressure made it hard to string together momentum or wear down the Blues’ defense.
This is something the coaching staff will want to address. The Stars have the talent to control the puck more often-they just need to execute the details that allow them to do it.
4. Strong Statement on the Penalty Kill
Let’s give credit where it’s due: the Stars' penalty kill came up big early. After struggling in that department in their last meeting with the Blues, Dallas made a clear adjustment. When Duchene took a cross-checking penalty in the first period, the kill unit stepped up and completely shut things down.
St. Louis couldn’t even get set up in the offensive zone, and the Stars’ pressure up ice forced turnovers and disrupted passing lanes. That early kill sent a message: Dallas wasn’t going to let special teams cost them this time around.
It’s a small sample, but it’s the kind of situational improvement that can make a big difference down the stretch.
Final Thoughts
This was a gutsy win for the Stars, powered by a much-needed breakout from Matt Duchene and some timely special teams play. But it also exposed a few areas that need shoring up-namely, physicality and puck possession at even strength.
With a tough road trip continuing Thursday in Vegas, Dallas doesn’t have much time to rest or reflect. But if Duchene can keep this momentum going and the team tightens up some of the loose ends, the Stars could be setting themselves up for a strong second half.
One thing’s clear: when Duchene is rolling, this team looks a whole lot more dangerous.