There is a new coach in town. Peter DeBoer replaces Rick Bowness, looking to turn the Dallas Stars back into Stanley Cup contenders. DeBoer is known to get results right away. The New Jersey Devils and San Jose Sharks both made the Stanley Cup Finals in his first season with each team, while the Vegas Golden Knights made the conference finals.
The Stars hope that DeBoer “magic” is real, as the team did not make any improvements in the offseason. In fact, Dallas is worse off, having lost several of its core, including defenseman John Klingberg and forward Alexander Radulov. Regardless, the NHL betting odds continue to have Dallas as a playoff contender.
Dallas also has several players that need new contracts, notably its star forward, Jason Robertson. The 41-goal scorer is currently unsigned as a restricted free agent. If Dallas is to improve this season, it will need its best player on offense.
Let’s check the latest NHL picks, stats, injury reports, and NHL predictions. We’ve plenty of NHL expert picks for you to consider.
Dallas Stars Current Odds
- To win Stanley Cup: +4000
- To win Western Conference: +1800
- To win Central Division: +1200
- To make playoffs: Yes -170/ No +140
Player to Watch
It’s obvious why Robertson is the Star to watch. When he’s on the ice, he is electric with his playmaking and sharp-shooting. He wasn’t in training camp, as his side continues to work on a deal. Other teams may already have their pitches ready for him.
Robertson will raise the ceiling of the Stars if/when he returns. However, without him, Dallas loses its biggest threat. It will need more out of Roope Hintz and Mason Marchment while Robertson is away. Expect this team’s online gambling odds to change should Robertson not return. If/when he does, Dallas may become a wily underdog.
- Player to Watch: LW Jason Robertson
Breakout Player
Several defensemen have had busout season after DeBoer became their coach. Brent Burns (San Jose) took his offensive production to the next level with DeBoer, and Shea Theodore (Vegas) registered his then-career high in points. Enter Dallas’ star defenseman, Miro Heiskanen, who could be next.
The Finn seems to have hit a wall since his stellar rookie campaign. Dallas just inked the 23-year-old to an eight-year deal, and is invested in seeing him become a Norris Trophy-worthy defenseman. With DeBoer, expect Heiskanen to have his best season to date, blowing past his 36-point career high. He’ll be a sharp bet online to make a run at the trophy.
- Breakout Watch: D Miro Heiskanen
Stars’ Outlook
It’s not hard to see the hopes of the Stars hinge on whether they re-sign Robertson. However, without a training camp, Robertson may get off to a slow start. Leading the team in goals (41), plus/minus (+16) and shooting percentage (11.2), it was at its best when he was on the ice.
Other than Robertson, Joe Pavelski needs to continue his production. The 38-year-old led the team in points (81) last season, and will be reunited with DeBoer. Dallas needs better production out of Tyler Seguin (49 points) and Jamie Benn (46) as well. Jake Oettinger, fresh off his new pact, has become one of the best goalies in the league.
We are expecting Dallas to be a better team in 2022-23. It will be a potentially profitable team with the bettors, more than last season At least, the Stars figure to be consistent, and with more of an identity.
