PreviewNo one expected the Stars to begin the season 2-0-0, yet here they are. But shortly after dominating the Jets, they now turn their attention to the high-powered Toronto Maple Leafs. John Tavares and Auston Matthews have combined for 9 goals in 3 games for the Leafs. However, the Leafs have also given up 14 goals in that span. The Stars have only given up one so far. People seem to forget that the Stars were ranked in the top ten last year in defense and now they look to continue that. The Stars have also outscored their opponents 8-1 and Bishop has been rock solid. Jamie Benn, Tyler Seguin, and Alexander Radulov have combined for 13 points and are picking up right where they left off last season.

Although the Stars top line has been impressive once again, depth scoring needs to make a bigger appearance. Nichushkin is expected to make his season debut against Toronto, so his presence could provide more offense. Overall though, the Stars need to shut down Matthews and Tavares in order to win. There is no doubt that the Stars can score, but can they make the night easier for Ben Bishop? Something to keep an eye on his where Faksa’s line comes into play. Does Monty play Seguin against Tavares, or does he seem confident enough in Faksa’s ability to shut down the former Islander?

So far Montgomery has created a great system, and the Stars have executed it to perfection. The Maple Leafs will be another major test to the Stars defense and Bishop. In the words of Tyler Seguin, the Stars passed their test against Winnipeg with “flying colors.” The Stars will need that confidence and emotion moving forward if they are to have any success against Toronto.