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Stars GM: ‘We’re putting hockey back on the map’

Anaheim Ducks v Dallas Stars - Game Six

DALLAS, TX - APRIL 27: The Dallas Stars thank the fans after a season ending loss against the Anaheim Ducks during Game Six of the First Round of the 2014 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center on April 27, 2014 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images)

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By playing to the strengths of young forwards Jamie Benn and Tyler Seguin, the Dallas Stars were already a fun team to watch in 2013-14. Imagine how thrilling that club can be by adding Jason Spezza and Ales Hemsky to the mix?

Let’s just say, it would be pretty sad if such an exciting group played to empty crowds in Dallas. GM Jim Nill believes that they’ve gotten the sometimes-fickle market’s attention with these moves.

“Well, I think we’re putting hockey back on the map here. I think Dallas is a great hockey town,” Nill said. “You look back to when they were in their heydays, when they won the Cup and that Dallas was as good a city anywhere in the world for hockey, and I think we’re getting back there ... I think there are going to be some special things happening here.”

Take a look at the Stars’ attendance numbers since the 2004-05 season was canceled, according to hockeydb.com:

starsattendance

James OBrien

Perhaps the 2014 postseason run already heightened expectations, but if nothing else, it sounds like Nill & Co. are being aggressive enough to make big waves. Ales Hemsky’s explanation for joining the Stars says a lot:

“Yeah, we talked a lot the last month,” Hemsky told Defending Big D. “They showed the most interest. They have a great team with Jamie Benn and Seguin and now adding Jason Spezza, it’s a great fit for me. Finally I can enjoy hockey again and that’s a great city too. I’m really excited.”

Stars fans should share that excitement.

Follow James O’Brien @cyclelikesedins