Dallas Stars, Panthers Play in Finland Series

The Dallas Stars are set to face the Florida Panthers in the 2024 NHL Global Series in Finland, marking a significant homecoming for Finnish players Miro Heiskanen, Roope Hintz, and Esa Lindell. Both teams are off to strong starts this season, with the Stars boasting a 7-2 record and the Panthers sitting at 7-3-1 despite early injuries to key players like Aleksander Barkov. The event is notable not only for the matchup but also for the cultural significance, as Finland is home to about 5% of current NHL players. Players and coaches have expressed excitement about playing in front of Finnish fans, with Stars' coach Peter DeBoer emphasizing the team's focus despite some light-hearted distractions during their trip. The games hold importance for both teams, as they look to solidify their standings early in the season and showcase their talents on an international stage. The Finnish atmosphere is expected to enhance the experience for both players and fans alike.