Dallas Stars Suffer Defensive Setback
The Dallas Stars took a ding defensively on Friday.
Shortly into the third period of the Stars’ matchup against the St. Louis Blues, Stars PR announced that defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin would be out for the remainder of the game with a lower body injury.
Ilya Lyubushkin (lower body) will not return tonight, per Stars PR.
— Lia Assimakopoulos (@Lassimak) January 24, 2026
Injury Details
Lyubushkin appeared to go down after blocking a shot in the second period. He never returned to the ice. Dallas played with five defenseman for the remainder of the game.
The 31-year-old Lyubushkin has played 38 games in his second season in Dallas and has seven points on a goal and six assists. He was averaging 16:25 time on the ice entering Friday’s game.
Impact on the Team
The Stars had been missing points leader Mikko Rantanen for the past two matchups before Friday, though Rantanen returned to the ice to face the Blues.
The Stars are coming off two straight last-minute victories entering Thursday’s matchup.
Potential Solutions
Kane could fill a need for the Stars but comes with a controversial past.
Detroit’s Kane reached 1,374 points at the age of 37, while Modano met the mark at age 40.
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Conclusion
The Dallas Stars suffered a defensive setback with the injury of Ilya Lyubushkin. The team will need to find a way to fill the gap and continue their winning streak. With the return of Mikko Rantanen, the Stars are hopeful to get back on track.
FAQs
Q: What happened to Ilya Lyubushkin?
A: Ilya Lyubushkin suffered a lower body injury and will not return to the game.
Q: How many games has Lyubushkin played this season?
A: Lyubushkin has played 38 games in his second season in Dallas.
Q: Who could fill the need for the Stars?
A: Kane could fill a need for the Stars but comes with a controversial past.
