The Texas Stars delivered a decisive 4-0 victory over the Chicago Wolves, showcasing their dominant skills at the H-E-B Center. Goaltender Remi Poirier was key, stopping all 29 shots he faced, securing a shutout that emphasized the Stars' defensive prowess. Curtis McKenzie opened the scoring midway through the first period, capitalizing on a rebound. Cameron Hughes followed with his 20th goal of the season, extending the lead just a minute later. The Stars maintained their momentum into the third period with Justin Hryckowian's power-play goal and a nifty pass from Hughes that set up Antonio Stranges for the final tally.

This victory concluded the Stars' homestand with a solid 4-2 record and sets them up for three challenging interdivision road games. Poirier's exceptional performance, along with Hughes' offensive contributions, positions Texas favorably as they head into their next matchup against the Milwaukee Admirals.

The 4 Nations Face-Off Championship Game showcased a thrilling rivalry between Canada and the United States, with Canada clinching a 3-2 overtime victory. The game captivated audiences, drawing in a stunning 9.3 million viewers on ESPN, peaking at 10.4 million, marking the largest audience for a hockey broadcast in the network's history. This midseason tournament featured elite players from the NHL, serving as a precursor to the Winter Olympics. The Dallas Stars notably contributed to the tournament with five players, including goaltender Jake Oettinger for Team USA and defenseman Thomas Harley for Team Canada.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, several prospects are likely to be on the move. Aleksi Heimosalmi of the Carolina Hurricanes and Antonio Stranges of the Dallas Stars are among those whose teams may opt to deal them, either to bolster their rosters for a playoff push or due to a logjam at their respective positions. Other notable names include Simon Nemec (New Jersey Devils) and Rutger McGroarty (Pittsburgh Penguins), both of whom could benefit from new opportunities.

The Toronto Maple Leafs face critical decisions on their pending free agents, Mitch Marner and John Tavares, with Marner reportedly seeking a contract in the range of $13 million to $14 million annually. The Leafs are also in the market for a second-line center and have shown interest in players like Brock Nelson (New York Islanders) and Casey Mittelstadt (Colorado Avalanche). Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers demand a first-round pick for Scott Laughton, with the Leafs hesitant to part with young prospects.

As the NHL trade deadline approaches, several prospects are likely to be on the move, particularly from teams in a position to make a serious playoff push. The Carolina Hurricanes' Aleksi Heimosalmi, Dallas Stars' Antonio Stranges, and New Jersey Devils' Simon Nemec are among the names mentioned as potential trade chips.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are also in a crucial position, contemplating the futures of their stars like Mitch Marner and John Tavares, both pending free agents. Marner may demand a salary close to Mikko Rantanen's anticipated $14 million, and Tavares is rumored to seek around $7 million. Meanwhile, players like Brock Nelson, Casey Mittelstadt, and Dylan Cozens could be targets to strengthen their lineup.

Injuries are taking a toll across the NHL as several key players are sidelined. Anaheim Ducks' Brock McGinn recently underwent ACL surgery and is expected to miss 7-9 months. Isac Lundestrom's status remains day-to-day due to a lower-body injury while Trevor Zegras has returned from a meniscus tear. The Boston Bruins placed Mark Kastelic on IR, while the Dallas Stars welcomed Roope Hintz back to their lineup, but Mason Marchment remains out. In Nashville, Cole Smith has been activated from IR. The New York Islanders are dealing with Noah Dobson's absence due to a lower-body injury, with no return date set.

Meanwhile, goaltender Linus Ullmark of the Ottawa Senators was seen at practice but didn’t skate, and Ryan Poehling of the Philadelphia Flyers is recovering from a head injury. Toronto Maple Leafs' Connor Dewar and Max Pacioretty have also missed time due to injuries, with the team hopeful about John Tavares’ potential return to skating soon. Goaltender Anthony Stolarz continues to make progress after a knee procedure, and Vancouver Canucks are monitoring several players, including Noah Juulsen and Kevin Lankinen, who missed a game due to illness.