Just over two months into the 2025-26 NHL regular season, the Colorado Avalanche look like the league’s most unstoppable team. Their 59 points are #1 in hockey so far, and they’re once again doing it with Nathan MacKinnon playing at an MVP level.
Many are saying they are the runaway train of the NHL, and nobody else has a chance to beat them because their structure is just too sound.
But oftentimes it’s not the team on top that is most dangerous; it’s the team trailing them closely that doesn’t have as much attention placed on them because they’re not out in front.
This year, that team is the Dallas Stars.
Colorado may have the spotlight pointed at them, but it may be the worst thing for them, as Dallas is trailing right behind them and looking just as, if not even more, dangerous than them.
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Utter Dominance in Dallas, Texas
In December, the Stars have shown dominance we haven’t seen in a while. In 11 games, they have a 9-2-1 record. In the nine games they won, they have a goal differential of +22 with 4+ goals in six games.
Along with the points, their star players are playing on a whole other planet.
Mikko Rantanen ranks fifth among all players in points with 49. Jason Robertson ranks eighth in points with 44 and third in goals with 23. Miro Heiskanen ranks third among defenders in points with 33. Lastly, the man who protects the net, Jake Oettinger, ranks sixth among all goalies in goals saved above expected leaders with 16.5 per game.
The Mastermind Behind It All
With all these impressive stats come the minds of the team. Head Coach Glen Gulutzan, in his second stint with the Stars, was formerly the head coach of the Calgary Flames (2016-2018) and assistant coach for the Vancouver Canucks (2013-2016) and Edmonton Oilers (2018-2025).
Gulutzan’s influence goes beyond systems; it shows in the Stars’ composure. Dallas no longer panics when trailing and doesn’t let momentum swings dictate their play. This maturity reflects a team that understands what it takes to win in May and June.
The Stars’ Depth Is Suffocating
What separates the Stars from most contenders is their depth. Dallas doesn’t rely solely on its top line to dictate games; instead, they roll four lines with ease. Their forwards consistently create scoring chances, wear down their opponents, and keep pressure throughout the game.
While Dallas’ offense gets headlines, its defensive discipline is just as special. The Stars limit those high-danger chances, forcing opponents to the perimeter, and collapse effectively in front of Oettinger. This commitment to two-way hockey allows them to protect leads and grind out wins even on nights when scoring chances are limited.
The Dallas Stars Are Ready to Hang a Banner
The Stars aren’t just winning games; they’re controlling them. With elite talent, depth in their lineup, structured, disciplined defense, and championship-level goaltending, Dallas has all the ingredients of a Stanley Cup winner. They may be chasing Colorado in the standings, but right now, no team looks more complete or more dangerous than the Dallas Stars.