Defenseman Chris Smith Traded to Stars for Young Defensive Prospect- Playoffs in Sight!

Dallas, Texas – The Dallas Stars are currently tied for first place in the Central Division with the Winnipeg Jets, despite the Jets holding four games in hand. The Stars, with a record of 35-17-9, are ranked 14th in the NHL for their goals against average of 3.03 per game.

General manager Jim Nill expressed his excitement about adding defenseman Chris to the team, citing his valuable experience and versatility on the ice. Chris is known for his strong penalty-killing abilities, which will greatly benefit the Stars’ special teams play.

Artem Grushnikov, a 20-year-old defenseman, has shown promise with five points in 44 games for Texas in the American Hockey League this season. His selection in the second round of the 2021 NHL Draft demonstrates the potential the Stars see in him for the future.

The Calgary Flames, currently on a four-game winning streak, find themselves in a battle for a playoff spot in the Western Conference. Flames general manager Craig Conroy acknowledged the difficulty of parting ways with Chris, emphasizing the team’s strategic decision-making in acquiring Grushnikov to bolster their defensive lineup.

With a record of 30-25-4, the New Jersey Devils are within reach of a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Tampa Bay Lightning by five points with two games in hand. The upcoming games will be crucial for the Devils as they strive to secure a playoff position.

The NHL landscape is evolving as teams make strategic moves to strengthen their rosters for the remaining games of the season. The acquisition of new talent like Artem Grushnikov highlights the ongoing competitiveness and drive for success among teams vying for playoff berths in both conferences.