The Dallas Stars' playoff journey is set to begin with a significant lineup shift, as head coach Glen Gulutzan delivered a mixed bag of injury updates Wednesday. Top-line center Roope Hintz, a crucial offensive engine, will miss the start of the postseason after a setback in his recovery from a lower-body injury sustained back on March 6.

"We thought we could have him maybe for the beginning of the series, and it doesn’t look that way," Gulutzan stated, emphasizing a cautious approach. "I think he’s progressing now, and we’re just going to be careful here." This news is a tough blow as the Central Division's No. 2 seed prepares to face the third-seeded Minnesota Wild this weekend.

However, the injury report isn't all bad news for Stars fans. There's a major positive on the blue line, where star defenseman Miro Heiskanen is expected to return for the playoff opener. Heiskanen, who last played on April 9, has been progressing well. "He’s getting better, but it’s kind of day to day right now," Gulutzan noted. "So very hopeful, though, on that front. Obviously a big player for us."

Adding to the returning depth, the Stars are getting healthier down the middle. Center Sam Steel was set to return against Buffalo after a nine-game absence, following the recent comeback of center Radek Faksa, who missed 24 games. While Hintz's absence creates a challenge, the returning reinforcements provide critical depth as Dallas gears up for its Stanley Cup pursuit.