Dallas Stars Prepare for Season Opener Against Revamped Nashville Predators

The Dallas Stars are gearing up for their highly anticipated 2024-25 season opener against the Nashville Predators at Bridgestone Arena. The game is scheduled for Thursday at 7:30 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on ESPN+ and Hulu.

Both teams are starting the season with 0-0 records and are tied for third in the Central Division. During the previous season, the Stars and Predators split their four-game series, with the road team winning each encounter. Notably, Dallas triumphed 9-2 in their last clash in Nashville.

This season opener holds extra significance as the Nashville Predators have made significant roster changes during the offseason. They acquired former Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos and Stanley Cup winner Jonathan Marchessault, positioning themselves as serious contenders in the league. Nashville also added defensemen Luke Schenn and Brady Skjei, and goalie Scott Wedgewood.

“Any time you’re in the division, particularly with what Nashville added, they’re going to have excitement with their new players,” said Stars Head Coach Pete DeBoer. “We’re going on the road in a tough building. It’s on us to be prepared for their pressure and make sure we execute.”

The Dallas Stars have seen some changes as well. They added defensemen Matt Dumba, Ilya Lyubushkin, and Brendan Smith. Additionally, they have secured goalie Casey DeSmith as a backup, improving their depth substantially.

Dallas did not shy away from bonding opportunities ahead of the match, organizing a team golf outing, facilitated by former Predator Matt Duchene. “It’s critically important to the new guys,” commented DeBoer on the team-building activities, adding that Duchene did a great job hosting the event.

Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger, with a record of 35-14-4 last season and known for his solid road game, is expected to start. “It’s obviously an amazing building to play in, and they’re going to be a really strong team this year,” said Duchene, looking forward to facing his former team.

As the lineups firm up, Rookies like Stankoven are expected to make their NHL debut, bringing a fresh dynamic to the Stars’ roster.

The Predators might play without their starting goalie Juuse Saros, who is dealing with an injury, potentially giving former Stars backup Scott Wedgewood the start. Despite the changes, Predators captain Ryan O'Reilly expressed confidence, saying, “Dallas obviously is one of the better teams in the league the last few years, and it’s going to be a great test for us.”

The match promises a thrilling contest between two formidable divisional opponents, each looking to set the tone for their season.