Roope Hintz was a game-time decision for the Dallas Stars in Game 3 of the Edmonton Oilers of the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Playoff Western Conference Finals but now we have an update. The anticipation only grew as he took pre-game warm-ups but no decision was yet made on his playing status. It came just moments before puck drop. Roope Hintz is a big-time difference-maker. And the final word is, he’s in for Game 3.
Roope Hintz of the Dallas Stars is In for Game 3 vs the Edmonton Oilers
Having Roope Hintz in the lineup makes a huge difference for the Dallas Stars. Now that he is in, the fans have something big to look forward to. In the playoffs, Roope Hintz has been very productive. Furthermore, he’s played 11 games total before this point and has six points. He wins 54.3% of his faceoffs. Moreover, he is very important to another key Dallas Star forward, Jason Robertson . With Hintz in the lineup, Robertson has 10 points in 11 games and three goals. In the four games without, he has no goals and only three assists. Also, a more new age stat to explain Hintz’s game impact is his tremendous pace. In fact, he is right up there with Connor McDavid . In speed bursts above 22 mph , Hintz has eight (in 11 games), compared to one a game (14 in 14), for McDavid. Therefore, with Hintz in the lineup, the impact can be felt in a multitude of ways.
What Does this Mean for the Dallas Stars
The Dallas Stars battled hard to even the series 1-1. Game 2 was a big victory for them at home in Dallas. Had they lost, the balance of power for the series would have shifted greatly. However, with the victory, and now after this update having Roope Hintz at their disposal, Dallas is trying to shift the balance in their favour.
Main photo credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
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