Dallas Stars fans received some concerning news: Captain Jamie Benn will miss the start of the season due to a collapsed lung. The team announced that Benn will undergo surgery and be re-evaluated in approximately four weeks. This is a significant blow to the Stars as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The injury occurred during the third period of Tuesday's preseason game against the Minnesota Wild, a game the Stars ultimately won 3-2 in overtime. Benn, a key player for Dallas, has been a consistent performer throughout his career.
Last season, the 36-year-old left winger recorded 49 points (16 goals, 33 assists) in 80 regular-season games. He also contributed 3 points (1 goal, 2 assists) during the Stars' 18 Stanley Cup Playoff games. Drafted by Dallas in the fifth round (No. 129) of the 2007 NHL Draft, Benn has amassed an impressive 956 points (399 goals, 557 assists) in 1,192 regular-season games and 80 points (28 goals, 52 assists) in 120 playoff games.
Benn signed a one-year, $1 million deal with the Stars on June 26 for the 2025-26 season, with up to $3 million available in performance bonuses. He is entering his 17th NHL season, and has played his entire career with the Dallas Stars. The Stars are scheduled to open their regular season on October 9 against the Winnipeg Jets.
The team expects Benn to make a full recovery. The Stars have been a strong contender in recent years, consistently reaching the Western Conference Final. Benn's absence will undoubtedly test their depth and resilience as they navigate the early part of the season.
Key Stats:
- Injury: Collapsed Lung
- Treatment: Surgery followed by re-evaluation in 4 weeks
- Last Season: 49 points (16 goals, 33 assists) in 80 games
- Career Stats: 956 points (399 goals, 557 assists) in 1,192 games
What this means for the Stars
With Benn sidelined, the Stars will need other players to step up and fill the void. The team's performance in the initial weeks of the season will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.