DALLAS, TX – The Dallas Stars are holding their breath after forward Roope Hintz sustained a leg injury during Friday night’s shootout loss to the Colorado Avalanche. The injury casts a shadow over the Stars’ pursuit of the top spot in the Western Conference.
The incident occurred late in the second period as Hintz became entangled with Colorado’s Nathan MacKinnon while battling for possession of the puck. He fell awkwardly, requiring assistance from teammates to depart the ice and did not return to the game.
The Stars, who had built a 3-1 lead in the first period and later a 4-3 advantage with seconds remaining in regulation, ultimately fell to the Avalanche 5-4 in a shootout. However, the outcome paled in comparison to the concern surrounding Hintz’s health.
Hintz had recently returned to the lineup after a brief illness sidelined him, just as the NHL resumed play following the Winter Olympic break. His re-injury is particularly unsettling given his importance to the Stars’ offensive attack.
Through 53 games this season, the 29-year-old Finnish forward has registered 15 goals and 29 assists for 44 points. He also represented Finland at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, contributing a goal and three assists in six games en route to a bronze medal.
The timing of the injury is especially difficult for Dallas, currently second in the Western Conference and battling Colorado for the Central Division lead. The Minnesota Wild are also close behind, making every game crucial in the tightly contested conference standings. Losing a key player like Hintz represents a significant setback.
As of Saturday, the extent of Hintz’s injury remains unclear. Brien Rea of Victory+ reported that Hintz will need to see another doctor before a definitive diagnosis and timeline for recovery can be established. This news confirms the initial concern surrounding the injury, leaving the Stars and their fans anxiously awaiting further updates.
Head coach Glen Gulutzan, however, remains cautiously optimistic. “We’re hopeful that he’ll be available before the playoffs kickoff,” Gulutzan said, acknowledging the uncertainty while expressing a desire to have Hintz back in the lineup as soon as possible.
Hintz’s absence will undoubtedly test the Stars’ depth and require adjustments to their offensive strategy. He is a key component of their top line, known for his playmaking ability and two-way versatility. Finding a suitable replacement will be a challenge for Gulutzan and his coaching staff.
The Stars activated Hintz off injured reserve on March 6th, after he had been dealing with an illness. He is in the third season of an eight-year, $67.6 million contract signed in November 2022. His consistent production – 75 points in 73 games in 2022-23, 65 points in 80 games last season, and 67 points in 76 games last season – underscores his value to the team.
For now, the Stars will focus on navigating the remainder of the regular season without one of their key contributors. The team’s ability to overcome this adversity will be a key indicator of their potential for success in the upcoming playoffs.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the Dallas Stars is their game against the [opponent to be determined] on [date to be determined]. Updates on Hintz’s condition will be provided as they become available.
What are your thoughts on the Stars’ chances without Hintz? Share your predictions and analysis in the comments below.
