dailyloe.com – The Dallas Stars are seeking a quick reset after a lopsided Game 1 loss to the Minnesota Wild in the NHL playoffs. Senior Staff Writer Mike Heika reported on April 19, 2026, that the team needs to lean back into what made it strong all season. The Stars lost the series opener to Minnesota. The team is now focusing on its core philosophy ahead of Game 2.
General Manager Jim Nill changed the coaching staff hoping to change the team’s message. Nill was reacting to problems between former coach Pete DeBoer and players after last year’s playoff loss. He also saw a chance to instill a different culture within the organization. New head coach Glen Gulutzan, a long-time assistant, is more collaborative and personable.
Gulutzan brought his ‘One Degree More’ philosophy to Dallas this year. The 54-year-old coach built this philosophy on his observations as an assistant in Edmonton. He wanted the Stars to be more physical, intense, and tougher both mentally and physically. Gulutzan has accomplished that task this season according to the report.
The coach imagined a place where these beliefs would be ‘sewn into the fabric’ of the team’s jerseys. That specific part is still a work in progress for the Stars. However, the overall concept is considered a good one by the team. Gulutzan said you cannot just react to a physical game or series.
Motivation cannot come solely from game results according to the coach. The process of playing physically has to feel natural for the players. This has happened for Dallas at times during the regular season. The team’s intensity bubbled up in games against rivals like Edmonton, Colorado, and Minnesota.
Players like Justin Hryckowian, Mavrik Bourque, and Jason Robertson have gotten under opponents’ skin. This occurs because they are doing the hard things every single shift. That consistent effort is a key part of the team’s identity. It is why Game 1’s performance was particularly disappointing for the Stars.
