Mark Stepneski reports that even though newly acquired defenseman Alex Goligoski was not able to skate with the club during today’s morning skate, the Stars do intend to have him in the lineup tonight, as Dallas takes on New Jersey. Goligoski offers an offensive upgrade for a defensive unit badly in need of defensive help. The Stars hope that his ability to play with the puck will further reduce pressure in their zone.
Jamie Benn is also expected to be active. Benn has missed ten games with a shoulder injury. His return is well timed, as it coincides with James Neal’s exit. Leading scorer Brad Richards is still out with a lower body injury, and Nicklas Grossman, Adam Burish and Krys Barch are near their returns but also will not play tonight.