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Craig Ludwig explains EXACTLY what the Dallas Stars must change if they want to win the Stanley Cup
Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

On the DLLS Stars Podcast, Craig Ludwig explained how Dallas is using a repeatable left-wing breakout pattern, and how opposing teams can disrupt it

Craig Ludwig knows defense.

So when the former Dallas Stars blueliner sees a pattern in the team's breakout, people listen.

This week on the DLLS Stars Podcast, Ludwig shared a detailed look at how the Stars are exiting their zone, and how teams could exploit it if they pay attention.

"Every time I see Dallas get the puck, they start breaking down the left-wing side,"
Ludwig explained. "From their blue line, they get to the neutral zone - and very rarely do you see the left defenseman, the far-side defenseman, stay out there. He comes straight off the ice. They do that every single time."

Ludwig said it's a habit that's carried over from last season.

And in his eyes, it creates a temporary gap in Dallas' setup.

Craig Ludwig says Dallas Stars' left-side zone exit leaves an opening that teams can attack with quick counters

According to Ludwig, the key is to recognize the moment when Dallas is "emptying out" that area of the ice.

"There's nobody there for a certain period of time," he continued. "So when that left winger gets the puck, and the left defenseman is coming across the ice, you have to send your right defenseman up on the play. Just throw the puck into that area."

Here is his full explanation:

In plain terms, when the Stars' left defenseman changes, it leaves a soft spot that can be targeted.

Opponents who send a defenseman forward at the right time could disrupt Dallas' clean exits and force turnovers before the breakout is complete.

I think it's actually a fascinating detail, and one that could matter a lot in the playoffs where adjustments make the difference.

With a system this structured, one small wrinkle could turn into a big opportunity, or a costly breakdown.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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