As the calendar winds down to the final days of 2025, the Dallas Stars face a week of critical matchups and compelling storylines. With a current record of 25-7-5, the Stars hold a strong position in the Central Division. However, the team faces challenges, including key injuries and the looming question of Olympic roster selections.

This Week's Schedule

The Stars have a relatively light week with three games: * December 27: vs Chicago Blackhawks. * December 31: vs Buffalo Sabres. * January 1: at Chicago Blackhawks.

Oettinger's Consistency and Workload

Jake Oettinger has been a pillar of strength in goal for the Stars. Despite a minor injury, Oettinger is expected to practice on Tuesday. His consistency is noteworthy, as he has allowed three goals or fewer in his last 14 consecutive games. Oettinger's performance places him among the league's top goaltenders, holding a 16-6-3 record with a 2.51 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage. With Oettinger dealing with a minor ailment, the readiness of backup Casey DeSmith becomes crucial. DeSmith has a 9-1-4 record with a 2.33 goals-against average and a .915 save percentage since joining the Stars. The team might consider giving Oettinger additional rest, especially with two home games before a six-game road trip.

Robertson's Olympic Aspirations

Jason Robertson continues to be a key offensive force for the Stars. With 23 goals and 22 assists this season, Robertson is the leading U.S.-born scorer in the NHL. He is motivated to make the U.S. Olympic roster after missing the cut for the 4 Nations Face-Off last year. His two-way effectiveness makes him a valuable asset. Robertson is playing in the final year of his four-year contract, which pays him an average annual salary of $7.75 million.

Injury Updates and Lineup Adjustments

Tyler Seguin is recovering from ACL surgery and will have his return timetable evaluated after the Olympic break. He suffered the injury in a game against the New York Rangers on December 2nd and is likely out for the remainder of the season. Ilya Lyubushkin and Nils Lundkvist are listed as day-to-day with illnesses and lower-body injuries, respectively.

Blackhawks Matchups

The Stars face the Chicago Blackhawks twice in the upcoming week. The Blackhawks will be without Connor Bedard, who is injured. Tyler Bertuzzi is expected to pick up the offensive slack for Chicago. The Stars defeated the Blackhawks 4-3 in a shootout on December 27th.

Additional Storylines

• Olympic Roster Deadline: The deadline for the 12 Olympic teams to submit their final rosters is December 31.
• Stars' Success: Since their arrival in Dallas in 1993, the Stars have made 20 postseason appearances, capturing nine division championships and two Presidents' Trophies.
• Robertson's Net Worth: Jason Robertson's projected earnings for the 2025-26 season are approximately $9.3 million.

As the Stars navigate this week's schedule, the performance of key players like Oettinger and Robertson, along with managing injuries, will be crucial. The team aims to maintain its strong position in the Central Division and build momentum heading into the new year.