DALLAS — The Dallas Stars are likely to see the return of Miro Heiskanen to their lineup tonight. This development means players like Mikko Rantanen could see increased ice time, presenting a challenge for the Winnipeg Jets.
Stars head coach Peter DeBoer informed reporters that he anticipates Heiskanen, the team`s primary defenseman who has been out since January due to knee surgery, will return for Game 4 of the second-round National Hockey League playoff series against the Jets.
Dallas currently leads the series against Winnipeg 2-1.
“Miro is scheduled to skate this morning, and we`ll assess the situation,” DeBoer stated. “Assuming it goes well, I expect him to play tonight.”
To help ease Heiskanen back into the game, DeBoer suggested the Stars might opt for a lineup featuring seven defensemen and eleven forwards. Dallas is aiming to move one victory closer to eliminating the regular-season champion Jets from the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Regarding the unconventional lineup approach, DeBoer commented, “Utilizing 11 forwards and seven defensemen is not problematic. It offers Mikko Rantanen some more time on the ice, which makes it an easy decision.”
Tristan Blackwood