The Dallas Stars' playoff preparations have hit a significant snag. Head coach Glen Gulutzan confirmed Wednesday that top-line center Roope Hintz will miss the start of the postseason after suffering a setback in his recovery from a lower-body injury.

This is a major blow for a Stars team with serious Stanley Cup aspirations. Hintz, a dynamic offensive force and a cornerstone of their top unit, is a player whose speed and scoring touch are nearly impossible to replace. His absence at the outset of what promises to be a grueling playoff run puts immediate pressure on the rest of the Dallas lineup to elevate their game.

There is a silver lining for the Stars, however. Coach Gulutzan noted that the team is otherwise getting healthier at several other positions as they gear up for the first round. This depth will be tested immediately, as Dallas must now find a way to generate offense and control the middle of the ice without one of their most dangerous weapons when the puck drops on the playoffs.