Analyst mentions the exact reason why the Dallas Stars are the team to beat in the Central Division

The Dallas Stars are being called the clear favorites to win the Central Division next season, with one analyst saying they could even run away with the race.

Despite making the Western Conference Final three straight years, Dallas has yet to advance to the Stanley Cup Final.

But with the division shifting, the path to the top may be clearer than ever.

According to Daily Faceoff, the Stars' depth, star power, and stability set them apart from their rivals.

On a recent edition of Daily Faceoff LIVE, Matt Larkin explained why he sees Dallas as being in a class of their own.

"I actually think the Dallas Stars are in a tier of their own in that division because of the fact that the Jets are taking a step back. I think people are sleeping on the fact that Colorado is trending in the wrong direction Their point total has gone down a couple years in a row, and their depth is getting shallower and shallower Their prospect pool is barren. There's no help coming So, because of that, I think this is the year that Dallas really separates and maybe wins the division by five or 10 points."

How rivals' regression boosts Dallas's chances

The Winnipeg Jets, coming off a Presidents' Trophy win, are expected to take a step back.

The Colorado Avalanche face cap strain and dwindling depth, which Larkin notes could leave them vulnerable.

Teams like the Minnesota Wild and St. Louis Blues could push for playoff spots, but Dallas remains the most balanced contender with stars like Mikko Rantanen, Jake Oettinger, and Jason Robertson leading the charge.

I believe this might finally be the season where Dallas not only wins the Central but also pushes through to the Cup Final.