NHL free agency is right around the corner, with the Dallas Stars poised for significant roster adjustments following a successful but ultimately disappointing season. The firing of head coach Pete DeBoer has set the stage for a fresh start as the Stars aim to build on their recent playoff appearances.

The Stars face decisions on nine free agents, including captain Jamie Benn and notable forwards like Matt Duchene and Evgenii Dadonov. With just under $5 million in cap space, the front office must negotiate wisely to fill gaps, particularly on defense and in the forward ranks. This tight cap situation may force the Stars to explore trades, particularly involving players like Mason Marchment and Matt Dumba, to free up more resources.

In a pivotal Game 5 elimination match against the Edmonton Oilers, the Dallas Stars have implemented a key lineup change by inserting rookie forward Mavrik Bourque into the roster. Bourque, who made his NHL playoff debut last season, has seen limited action during this postseason, missing several games due to previous performances where he failed to register points. The Stars are betting on his potential to energize the offense, especially in light of their goal-scoring struggles.

During the regular season, Bourque showcased his offensive capabilities with 11 goals and 14 assists across 73 games, predominantly playing on the fourth line while also proving effective in penalty-killing roles. His addition aims to bolster the Stars as they strive to stave off elimination and continue their playoff campaign. With Bourque's AHL MVP credentials and the expectation for him to deliver under pressure, the Stars are hopeful for a breakthrough performance.

The Dallas Stars snatched a pivotal victory from the Colorado Avalanche in a thrilling overtime finish, taking Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs first-round series 4-3. Colin Blackwell, who was absent in the first game, scored the decisive goal with just over two minutes left in overtime. The Stars showed resilience after Evegenii Dadonov tied the game in the third period, following a scramble in front of the net. The Avalanche put up a strong fight, with standout plays from Nathan MacKinnon and Logan O’Connor, who demonstrated remarkable skill to give Colorado a lead earlier in the match. Yet, it was Tyler Seguin's equalizer at the end of the first that set the tone for a tightly contested game. Despite a rocky start, Dallas capitalized on opportunities, culminating in a crucial win as they look to shift momentum in the series.

In a thrilling playoff matchup, the Dallas Stars edged the Colorado Avalanche with a 4-3 overtime victory, leveling the series at one game apiece. Colin Blackwell emerged as the hero, netting the game-winner with just over two minutes left in the first overtime. The Stars overcame a third-period deficit after Evgenii Dadonov's late equalizer, showcasing resilience amidst a challenging playoff landscape.

Despite moments of struggle, including a lackluster power play performance, Dallas's depth proved crucial with contributions from all lines. Key players like Tyler Seguin returned strong after injury, and the Stars defense will need to step up against Nathan MacKinnon, who has been a standout for the Avalanche thus far. With the series shifting to Denver, the Stars aim to build on this momentum.