Gameday Preview: Stars v. Rockford IceHogs

Texas Stars
15-16-0-2, 32 pts
#14 Western Conference
v.Rockford IceHogs
12-19-1-3, 28 pts
#15 Western Conference
January 8th at 5:00 PM
Cedar Park Center, Cedar Park, TX

Texas welcomes the Rockford IceHogs back to the Cedar Park Center for a second game in a row against the club this afternoon. Today's matinee game is only the second such game of the season for the Stars, who won their only other matinee 7-0 over the Barons in the season opener. Texas and Rockford are both finishing up three-in-threes today, so today's game might be a little sluggish.

Texas saw Rockford last night and they have some similarities between the two clubs. It was clear that Rockford has talent on the ice, but it's been a season of bad breaks and tough bounces. In the third of last night's game, the Hogs had at least three chances at a wide open net with Raycroft sprawled out and missed or didn't get a shot off. They are dangerous, but something just isn't clicking for them this season.

The Stars should look to their power play to contribute again. Third day legs can lead to lazy penalties, which can generate opportunities. If the Stars cash in, they can set themselves up for a solid win before Abbotsford comes to town on Wednesday. The same is true for Rockford though, so Texas needs to play smart.

Expect Tyler Beskorowany in net tonight as Jimmy Spratt will be returning to Idaho today.

Stars injury/call up report:
Larsen, Vincour, Benn (callup)
Sawada, Tousignant (unspecified injury)

Website: icehogs.com
Blog (unofficial): Rockford IceHogs Fan Blog
Twitter: @goicehogs

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