The upcoming matchup between the Stars and the Rangers will feature distinct projected lineups that reflect each team’s current strategies and injury challenges. Both teams will adjust their rosters to maximize performance despite several key player absences.
Stars Projected Lineup
The Stars plan to roll out a strong offensive forward group led by Jamie Benn, Wyatt Johnston, and Mikko Rantanen on the top line. Jason Robertson centers the second line alongside Roope Hintz and Tyler Seguin, providing depth and skill. The third and fourth lines will feature Oskar Back, Justin Hryckowian, Mavrik Bourque, Sam Steel, Radek Faksa, and Colin Blackwell respectively. Defensively, Esa Lindell partners with Miro Heiskanen, while Vladislav Kolyachonok replaces the injured Lian Bichsel alongside Ilya Lybushkin. Kyle Capobianco and Alex Petrovic complete the defensive pairs. In goal, Casey DeSmith is slated to start, with Jake Oettinger available as a backup after recovering from a stomach flu.
Rangers Projected Lineup
The Rangers’ forward lines are spearheaded by Artemi Panarin flanked by Mika Zibanejad and Alexis Lafreniere. J.T. Miller and Vincent Trocheck anchor the second line, supported by Jonny Brodzinski. The third and fourth lines include Will Cuylle, Noah Laba, Brett Berard, Conor Sheary, Sam Carrick, and Taylor Raddysh. On defense, Vladislav Gavrikov pairs with Braden Schneider; Carson Soucy partners with Will Borgen; and Matthew Robertson teams with Scott Morrow, who replaces the injured Adam Fox. Igor Shesterkin starts in goal, with Spencer Martin as his backup after being recalled from Hartford.
Injury and Roster Updates
Stars defenseman Lian Bichsel is sidelined for six to eight weeks following surgery for a lower-body injury sustained during a recent game. Vladislav Kolyachonok has stepped in to fill his role. The Rangers are managing multiple injuries, including Adam Fox who remains on long-term injured reserve, and Adam Edstrom who is day to day. The coaching staff continues to evaluate forward options to fill gaps, balancing player recalls and scratches.
Both coaches, Glen Gulutzan for the Stars and Mike Sullivan for the Rangers, appear focused on optimizing line combinations to mitigate injury impacts. This lineup configuration reflects their efforts to maintain competitive balance and adaptability heading into the game.
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