Veteran NHL analyst Aaron Portzline says the Dallas Stars are "right on that hump," calling them fast, talented, and dangerous in the Western Conference race.
Longtime NHL insider Aaron Portzline had plenty to say about the Dallas Stars on a recent episode of the DLLS Stars Podcast - and almost all of it was glowing.
"I think it's a hell of a hockey team," Portzline said. "I love the speed they play with."
The veteran journalist from The Athletic, who's covered the league for decades, was clearly impressed with how the Stars are built and how they move.
He repeatedly praised Dallas for its depth, pace, and the talent up front and on the blue line.
But he also didn't shy away from mentioning one loss that might fly under the radar.
"I think they're going to miss Misha Donskov," he added, referring to the Stars' former Director of Hockey Strategy, who left the organization in 2024.
Portzline acknowledged that Dallas is loaded with talent and could make another strong push, but also noted how tough the Western Conference is going to be.
Here is the full clip:
When asked about the Stars' chances to go all the way, Portzline said:
"The talent there is unmistakable. I think the West is really tough and fairly wide open."
Then came his key line, one that perfectly sums up how many people around the league view Dallas heading into 2025-26.
"I'm not sure how they get off the hump," he admitted, "but they're a team that's right on that hump."
To me, that sounds like someone who believes the Stars are closer than people realize.
With players like Miro Heiskanen, Wyatt Johnston, and Roope Hintz entering their prime, and with Jason Robertson still unsigned, the window is open.
But the climb to the top will still demand answers, especially after last spring's early playoff exit.
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