The Dallas Stars have a chance to close out their first-round series Friday night against the Minnesota Wild and could have some added firepower in the lineup.
Joe Pavelski participated in practice Thursday and will travel with the team. Head coach Pete DeBoer told Saad Yousuf of The Athletic that the team would “see tomorrow morning” if he’s a full-go.
Pavelski hasn’t played since taking a hard hit from Matt Dumba in Game 1, though the team has done rather well in his absence. Even without one of its most dangerous offensive players, Dallas has outscored Minnesota 17-13 in the series. Still, there’s little doubt the Stars would have the veteran leader in the lineup if they could.
Set to turn 39 this summer, Pavelski is still playing at an incredibly high level. With 28 goals and 77 points in the regular season, he trailed only Jason Robertson and Jamie Benn for the team lead. His continued excellence is a big reason why the Stars were seen by many as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender when the playoffs began. His return should help them as they try to hold off any Minnesota comeback over the next few nights.
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