Dallas Stars Captain Jamie Benn Undergoes Surgery for Collapsed Lung, Misses Season Opener

Dallas Stars captain Jamie Benn will miss the start of the 2025-26 NHL season after suffering a collapsed lung during a preseason game against the Minnesota Wild. Benn, 36, underwent emergency surgery and is expected to be sidelined for at least four weeks, with strict travel restrictions due to lung pressure concerns. Despite the injury occurring in a seemingly minor incident, team doctors quickly diagnosed the problem and took prompt action, leading to an expected full recovery. Benn's absence is a significant blow to the Stars, as he is a key veteran leader and reliable scorer, nearing the 1,000-point milestone in his 17th NHL season. The Stars will open their season on October 9 against the Winnipeg Jets without their captain, who will be reevaluated after his recovery period. The injury underscores the unpredictable nature of hockey and the challenges the team faces early in the season.