Game Preview: Stars vs Blackhawks: Stars Look to Snap Five-Game Winless Skid

Friday’s loss was another instance in a string of disappointing performances for the Stars. After back-to-back 4-1 losses at the hand of the St. Louis Blues, Dallas will look to respond as they take on the Chicago Blackhawks on the second night of a back-to-back on Saturday.

"We're trying to fight our way back into a playoff spot," coach Rick Bowness said to the media on Friday night. "Is that not enough motivation? What else is there? You play the game to win, you play the game to make the playoffs. I believe in this team. I believe in this group. I know we're having a tough time right now and I also believe we'll play our way out of it."

For Dallas, the issues are piling up but most of them seem to come down to one thing, effort. During their current five-game losing streak, the Stars have shown small glimpses of hope mixed with heavy amounts of lackluster play.

"A little bit more effort, heart, emotion," Stars captain Jamie Benn said when asked what was needed. "It's hard to win in this league, and you need to bring it every night."

Saturday’s matchup in Dallas will feature two teams coming off of losses on Friday night. Chicago lost an overtime game in Nashville and had to travel to Dallas so fatigue is likely going to be an issue on both sides.

Chicago has found their game lately after beginning the season with a 1-9-2 record. They currently sit just three points behind the Stars in the Central Division and have points in three of their last four games.

Dallas canceled their morning skate this morning in order to fully recover from last night’s game so their lineup tonight remains unknown. However, they are hoping that Miro Heiskanen will be able to return after missing the last game due to a non-COVID-related illness. The line combinations are likely to be shuffled after a poor performance on Friday in St. Louis as the Stars continue to search for consistency on the ice.