Texas Stars in Pole Position to Make Playoffs Despite Idle Week

(Credit: Andy Nietupski/Texas Stars)

In the midst of an idle week, the Texas Stars are stuck scoreboard watching as the rest of the division catches up to their games played mark. Everyone chasing the Stars has at least one game in hand as of today, and Manitoba has a pair.

As for some optimism, Texas has the best chance to make the playoffs of all the remaining teams, I believe. Four of their remaining games are at home, and that fifth game is in San Antonio, which is like a second home to the Stars in terms of win percentage historically. Their strength of schedule on remaining games is significantly lower than any other club as well. And finally, although it is tough to watch the rest of the division play around you, the idle week gives them a chance to fine tune systems and rest weary bodies before the final push. If Texas doesn't make the postseason here, I think something really has to go off the rails.

Here's a rundown of the relevant games for Texas through the idle week.

Texas would love some help tonight from two teams whose playoff fates are already decided. First, the playoff bound Condors faceoff against the Moose, who trail Texas by just two points but have that extra game in hand over everyone else. Bako lost their last contest but is on a 6-2-1-1 run in the last ten. The Condors have won both previous matchups this season, both in Bakersfield in December.

On the non-playoff side, the Rampage could help Texas out as they play Rockford tonight. It's not looking great though. San Antonio has picked up a win in their last game, their first victory since March 6th. Rockford has also been the loser in four of their last five. Rockford is three points back.

On Wednesday night, Bako and Manitoba play again to finish their season series. San Antonio slides over to Milwaukee to play the Admirals. The Ads are tied with Texas at the moment but with that extra game in hand.