Sun Jan 18 18:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Stars Face Lightning Amidst Slump and Rantanen’s Adjustment

The Story:

The Dallas Stars are set to face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday, January 18th, at the American Airlines Center. The Stars are looking to break a 2-5-4 slump. The article highlights key players such as Wyatt Johnston, currently on a three-game point streak, and Nikita Kucherov of the Lightning, who has been dominating the scoreboards lately. Additionally, the report focuses on Mikko Rantanen’s adaptation to his role in Dallas after his trade from Colorado, noting his offensive production and penalty issues. Road closures in downtown Dallas could affect fans’ travel to the game.

Key Points:

  • The Dallas Stars play the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday, January 18th at 1:00 p.m. CT.
  • Wyatt Johnston is on a three-game point streak, and he is currently third on the Stars in scoring with 53 points.
  • Nikita Kucherov leads the Lightning in scoring with 69 points and is dominant on the road.
  • Mikko Rantanen leads the Stars in scoring with 63 points and is adjusting to his role in Dallas.
  • Coach Glen Gulutzan addresses the team’s current slump and Rantanen’s penalty issues.
  • Defenseman Thomas Harley played a season-high 30:46 due to Miro Heiskanen’s absence but Heiskanen is expected back in the lineup Sunday.
  • The Tampa Bay Lightning have a goal-differential of plus-43, and are second in scoring and goals against in the NHL.
  • The Tampa Bay Lightning have the most road wins in the NHL at 17-4-4.
  • Interstate 30 eastbound and westbound in downtown Dallas will be closed between the I-35E and I-45/US-75 interchanges on Sunday.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Stars need to improve their home record against a strong Lightning team.
  • Rantanen’s adaptation to Dallas is crucial for the Stars’ success, including balancing his offensive contributions with discipline.
  • Addressing the power play slowdown and penalty issues is critical for the Stars to break out of their slump.
  • Key players such as Johnston, Kucherov, and Rantanen will be vital to the game’s outcome.
  • The coaching staff is trying to maintain the team’s identity during a slump.

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