Roope Hintz, the Dallas Stars' dynamic center, is on the mend from an illness and his status for Wednesday’s matchup against the Seattle Kraken remains uncertain. Coach Glen Gulutzan indicated that Hintz will be a game-time decision, leaving fans eagerly awaiting updates.
Hintz, at 29, recently showcased his skills on the international stage, representing Finland at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. His performance was instrumental in Finland securing a bronze medal, as he tallied one goal and four points over six games.
As the NHL gears up to resume play after a three-week Olympic hiatus, the Stars are set to face off against the Kraken at the American Airlines Center in Dallas. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CT, and all eyes will be on whether Hintz will lace up his skates for the game.
The news of Hintz’s illness first emerged from Stars beat reporter Robert Tiffin, who relayed Coach Gulutzan's comments during a media session in Dallas.
This season, Hintz has been a key contributor for the Stars, amassing 15 goals and 44 points in 52 games. Standing tall at 6'3", the Nokia, Finland native ranks fourth in goals and fifth in points on the team. Alongside fellow Finns Miro Heiskanen, Mikko Rantanen, and Esa Lindell, Hintz forms a formidable Finnish quartet that has made significant contributions to the Stars’ lineup.
Drafted 49th overall by the Stars in 2015, Hintz honed his skills with HIFK Helsinki in Finland’s Liiga before making his way to North America in 2017. He broke into the NHL during the 2018-19 season, notching 22 points in his first 58 games. By the 2020-21 season, Hintz had solidified his role as a top-line forward, posting an impressive 43 points in 41 games during a shortened season.
Over his NHL career, spanning 520 games, Hintz has tallied 190 goals and 421 points. His playoff prowess is equally notable, with 27 goals and 69 points in 95 games, including a pivotal role in the Stars’ journey to the 2020 Stanley Cup Final.
As the Stars prepare to hit the ice again, the potential return of Hintz could be a significant boost, adding depth and skill to their offensive lineup. Fans will be watching closely, hoping to see Hintz back in action, ready to make an impact.