The Dallas Stars return to American Airlines Center on November 6, 2025, poised to defend home ice against an improving Anaheim Ducks squad in what should be an exciting Western Conference matchup. The Stars have built their identity around depth, experience, and discipline — qualities that have made them one of the NHL’s most consistent teams over the past few seasons. Led by head coach Peter DeBoer, Dallas plays a structured, methodical brand of hockey that emphasizes puck possession, transition control, and elite special teams efficiency. At the heart of their attack remains the formidable top line of Roope Hintz, Jason Robertson, and Joe Pavelski, one of the most cohesive and dangerous trios in the league. Robertson’s offensive creativity and finishing ability make him the focal point of the Stars’ power play, while Pavelski’s net-front instincts and Hintz’s speed through the neutral zone create matchup nightmares for opposing defenses. Behind them, Dallas benefits from excellent secondary scoring from Wyatt Johnston and Jamie Benn, whose leadership and physical edge continue to set the tone for younger players. Defensively, the Stars boast one of the league’s more complete blue lines, led by Miro Heiskanen, whose effortless skating and ability to control tempo make him invaluable on both ends of the ice.

Thomas Harley has emerged as a reliable partner capable of handling top-pair minutes, giving Dallas the flexibility to maintain balance throughout their defensive corps. In goal, Jake Oettinger remains one of the NHL’s premier netminders, combining sharp angles, elite rebound control, and the composure to make clutch saves late in games. His presence at home gives the Stars a significant advantage, especially in low-scoring, physical contests. Tactically, Dallas will look to slow Anaheim’s young, fast-paced offense by clogging passing lanes and using their forecheck to limit breakout options. They’ll aim to wear down the Ducks with sustained offensive-zone time and force them into penalties, where the Stars’ power play can thrive. While Dallas’s 4-6 record against the spread at home suggests they often win tight games rather than blowouts, their ability to dictate pace and grind opponents into submission makes them a reliable home favorite. The key to victory will be maintaining energy through all three periods, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities, and shutting down Anaheim’s transition game. Expect Dallas to lean heavily on its veterans early, control possession with structured puck movement, and use its defensive depth to neutralize Anaheim’s young scoring threats. With Oettinger locked in and the top line in sync, the Stars are well-positioned to secure another home win and continue their steady climb in the Western Conference standings, reaffirming why they remain one of the most disciplined and dangerous teams in the NHL.