The Dallas Stars (7-5-1) return to American Airlines Center to face the Columbus Blue Jackets (5-6-0) on Saturday looking to rediscover their winning ways.
After back-to-back rough outings against New Jersey and Montreal, the Stars have a chance to get back in the win column against a squad they have earned points against in 10 of their last 15 matchups.
Here are three things to know about the game:
When: Saturday, Oct. 31 at 7 p.m.
Where: American Airlines Center
TV/streaming: Prime Video / ESPN+
Radio: Sportsradio 96.7/1310 The Ticket
Stars forward Mikko Rantanen put up two assists in Dallas’ loss on Thursday night against the Canadiens and has now registered 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in his last seven games played. Rantanen’s assist on Jamie Benn’s goal was his 78th as a member of the Stars, which surpassed Kent Nilsson (77) for the most in franchise history through a player’s first 100 games with the team according to NHL Stats. His 111 points (33 goals, 78 assists) as a member of the Stars are the most by a Stars skater through their first 100 games played with the team since the franchise relocated to Dallas. In his career against Columbus, Rantanen has totaled 15 points (6 goals, 9 assists) and two game-winning goals in 14 games, averaging 1.07 points per game.
Blue Jackets forward Kent Johnson enters Saturday’s matchup riding a three-game point streak, collecting six points (3 goals, 3 assists) during that span. In all, Johnson has registered 11 points (7 goals, 4 assists) and two game-winning goals through 11 games played this season. In his career against Dallas, Johnson has notched six points (2 goals, 4 assists) in seven games played, recording points in all but two games against the Stars.
Fans are encouraged to wear costumes for the Halloween night matchup, and participate in fan activations including trick or treating around American Airlines Center to celebrate the holiday. Doors open at 5:30 p.m.