Last night was an awesome beginning to the Star’s fifth anniversary as our team and for the Austin area having AHL-level hockey for the first time. I don’t think we’ve even been part of stronger, more-recognized leagues like the IHL or ECHL.
No matter, we kicked Chicago’s ass 4-1. The shutout for Jack Campbell would’ve been sweeter but all the goals coming from three of the four uber-vets rocked! My definition of uber-vets = the four players who’ve been with us since the inaugural 2009-10 season. They would be in alpha order: Maxime Fortunus, Travis Morin, Colton Sceviour and Francis Wathier. There are some returning faces and new guys amongst the team. Others I’m sad to see go to Dallas or worse, rivals! If it got these players to the NHL, then I’m behind them 100 percent, especially our beloved enforcer Luke Gazdic…stolen away through waivers to the Edmonton Oilers. Luke went on to score a goal in his debut too. He isn’t getting much ice time so the painful part will be seeing him in a Barons jersey later this season.
Back to last evening.
My Stars were mostly firing on all cylinders. There were a couple occasions they let the Wolves stay on the attack too long yet the blue liners did a better job keeping the number of shots down on Campbell. Now can we maintain this level of play for about 60 games? We’ll see. Dallas definitely looks younger as I glanced over who made the cut, pretty nice, about six guys from last year. I thought the officiating was a tad oblivious, the ref only started calling trips near the end. His “goal” gesture was weird when the Stars shoved the puck under the net from behind as well, I think a Wolf lifted it up first.
The Chicago Wolves’ roster was changed over due to them changing their affiliation to the Blues, anathema to all parties involved. I didn’t recognize any St. Louis or Peoria names, the Vancouver players moved to Utica, NY to have delicious steamed hams. The Blues’ logo isn’t on the Wolves’ uniforms was another unusual factor. The colors may not match but San Antonio has something to show they’re tied to the Panthers or at least they did with the Coyotes. I am looking forward to seeing the Wolves come back because Christian Hanson is on their roster. For Slapshot! fans, yes, it’s Dave Hanson’s son.
On to see the Stars play a rare Sunday afternoon game, hoping for a two-peat!