RTP Daily, September 25: Anything Left in the Dallas Stars Tank?

It was nice to see Steven Stamkos come back in Game 3, but while he did score a goal in the game; he didn’t have time to really make an impact. Stamkos was under no obligation to risk coming back; the Bolts didn’t necessarily “need” him but he deserves it. One hopes this doesn’t have a long term risk on his health but I suspect he would know that better.

As for the Dallas Stars; they seem to have stunned many teams with their post season performance (have you recovered yet Colorado?) but did they peak too soon in Game 1? Skill wise, the Bolts were always going to be the favourites but what about the drive? Any team who has come this far obviously has all the motivation it needs to play every game like it’s their last but I am referring to the drive that has been in the making for several years. Nobody will disagree that the Bolts should have probably won the Cup at least once in the past 4-5 years; Steve Yzerman is probably still very confused how it didn’t happen. They’re a team that has had all the pieces to go far but always ended up short (or swept). For them to finally come this far I just don’t see them letting that chance get away again. Needless to say, we are talking about the NHL playoffs and anything can happen. It would also be unfair to count out the Dallas Stars after 3 games.

Tonight’s Game:

Tampa Bay Lightning @ Dallas Stars, 8:00PM EST, TBL leads series 2-1

As with Game 3, there will be a lot of focus on the status of Steven Stamkos who didn’t return last game and whose status is unknown for Game 4. He didn’t look like he was 100% comfortable on the ice and it could be wise to just keep him out until they are in an elimination scenario where he could be able to play in a Cup winning game.

Will the Bolts put the Stars at the brink?