The St. Louis Blues and Dallas Stars open the 2026-27 NHL season against each other on October 3 in Dallas, with both teams aiming to make an early statement in the Central Division.
The St. Louis Blues and Dallas Stars kick off the 2026-27 NHL season on October 3 at American Airlines Center, a Central Division clash with early playoff implications. The Stars, coming off a second-place division finish, boast a high-powered offense led by Jason Robertson, while the Blues, fifth in the Central, hope their offseason additions — including Connor McMichael and Dillon Dube — spark a climb up the standings. With both teams eyeing a strong start, this divisional opener could set the tone for the season.
St. Louis Blues: Retooled Roster Looks to Prove Itself
The Blues enter the season with a revamped lineup. They signed forward Connor McMichael to a six-year, $40.5 million contract, locking in a player they acquired recently and clearly view as a core piece. Dillon Dube also joined on a free-agent deal, though his signing has drawn attention due to his involvement in the 2018 Hockey Canada World Junior sexual assault case, where he was acquitted. The Blues also will have their games produced and distributed by the NHL this season, a new broadcasting arrangement shared with three other teams.
St. Louis finished fifth in the Central Division last season and will need a strong start to validate their offseason moves. The Blues have not played a regular-season game yet, so their opening night lineup remains unconfirmed. However, the addition of McMichael should bolster their forward depth, and Dube adds a scoring touch. The team will rely on a balanced attack to compete in a tough division.
Dallas Stars: Robertson Bridge Deal, Benn’s Return Highlight Offseason
The Stars, second in the Central, are led by Jason Robertson, who posted 96 points last season. After a contentious negotiation that included a nixed trade to Seattle and an arbitration filing, Robertson signed a one-year, $12 million deal. General Manager Jim Nill stated that a long-term extension remains the goal, but for now, Robertson’s focus will be on the ice. Captain Jamie Benn is also returning for his 18th season with the franchise, providing veteran leadership.
Dallas did lose some depth: center Mavrik Bourque (20 goals, 21 assists in 82 games) was traded to Nashville and signed a six-year, $33 million contract. That departure leaves a gap in the middle, but the Stars still boast a strong core. With Robertson and Benn leading the way, they’ll aim to close the gap on the division’s top spot and make a deep playoff run.
Head-to-Head: Early-Season Divisional Battle
Both teams are coming off the offseason with something to prove. The Stars have the higher standing and home-ice advantage, but the Blues have made significant changes. Key matchups to watch include the Blues’ new-look forward group against the Stars’ defensive structure. Robertson will be a focal point for St. Louis to contain, while Dallas will need to account for McMichael’s speed and Dube’s offensive instincts.
Special teams could be decisive. Both teams have yet to show their form in the regular season, so the first game will be about execution and adapting quickly. The Stars’ experience and home crowd give them a slight edge, but the Blues are motivated to start strong.
- Jason Robertson’s return after a contract dispute — will he pick up where he left off?
- Connor McMichael’s debut with the Blues after signing a long-term deal.
- Jamie Benn’s leadership in what could be his final season.
- Central Division positioning: early points are crucial.
- New NHL-produced broadcast for the Blues — any impact on the game?
Prediction: Stars Edge Blues in a Tight Opener
Expect a competitive, low-scoring game as both teams shake off the rust. Dallas’s offensive firepower, combined with home-ice advantage, gives them the edge. The Blues will keep it close, but the Stars’ top line should break through. Prediction: Dallas Stars win 3-2 in a shootout.
🎧 Listen daily to both teams
Beatline Sports covers every team, every day — new episodes each morning.