Stars' Roope Hintz Out to Start Playoffs

Why it matters locally: Roope Hintz's absence is a significant blow to the Dallas Stars as they enter the playoffs, impacting fan expectations and the team's chances in a state with a large hockey fanbase.

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Dallas Stars center Roope Hintz will be unavailable to start the playoffs. Head coach Glen Gulutzan confirmed Wednesday that Hintz experienced a setback in his recovery from a lower-body injury. Details on a potential return date remain unconfirmed at this time. The team is expected to see improvements in player health at other positions going into the playoffs.