Written by Jordan Mitchell
The Dallas Stars return home Sunday afternoon looking to snap a four-game winless stretch, while the Montréal Canadiens arrive with strong road form and two of the league’s most dangerous scorers — Jason Robertson and Cole Caufield — at the center of the matchup.
Game details
- When: Sunday, January 4, 2026 — 1:00 p.m. local (Dallas) / 2:00 p.m. ET
- Where: American Airlines Center, Dallas
- TV: Victory+
- Radio: The Ticket 96.7-FM / 1310-AM
Matchup snapshot
Dallas enters the matinee at 25-9-7 overall and 12-6-2 at home, while Montréal sits at 22-13-6 with a strong 12-4-5 road record. This is the second meeting between the teams this season after Dallas delivered a 7–0 win in Montréal back in November.
Despite the Stars’ position near the top of the Central Division, the focus Sunday is on momentum. Dallas has dropped four straight games, while the Canadiens have quietly played some of their best hockey over the past two weeks.
Elite numbers, recent problems
Over the full season, Dallas still profiles as one of the NHL’s most complete teams — ranking near the league lead in scoring, power-play efficiency, and overall points. The concern entering Sunday is execution, particularly in defensive details that have crept in during the current slide.
From Montréal’s perspective, the opportunity is clear. With Dallas searching for answers, the Canadiens can lean on their pace, finishing ability, and road confidence to pressure the Stars early and turn the matinee into an uncomfortable test.
Players to watch
Jason Robertson — Dallas
Robertson continues to drive the Stars’ offense, leading the team with 48 points (24 goals, 24 assists) this season. He was the standout in the earlier meeting with Montréal, scoring twice during the lopsided win, and remains Dallas’ most reliable finisher in high-leverage moments.
Cole Caufield — Montréal
Caufield enters the game as Montréal’s top scoring threat, already reaching the 20-goal mark and riding a recent point streak. His quick release and power-play presence make him a constant concern for a Dallas penalty kill looking to regain consistency.
Key numbers
- Goals per game: Dallas (3.41) and Montréal (3.38) both rank among the NHL’s top scoring teams.
- Shooting efficiency: Both clubs rank near the top of the league in shooting percentage despite lower shot volume.
- Special teams edge: Dallas’ power play sits near the top of the NHL at just under 30 percent.
Odds context
Entering the matchup, Dallas is listed as a clear favorite, with the total set at 6.5 goals. While the numbers reflect long-term performance, Montréal’s recent form suggests this contest may be tighter than the odds imply.
Olympic buzz around the Stars
Another layer to the afternoon comes from the international spotlight around Dallas’ locker room. Several Stars players have recently been named to their respective national teams for the 2026 Winter Olympics, adding excitement — and expectation — as the club works through the midpoint of the NHL schedule.
What will decide it
- Discipline: Dallas is at its best when staying out of the penalty box.
- Early chances: With two efficient offenses, first-period finishing could set the tone.
- Road composure: Montréal’s ability to stay patient away from home will be tested.
More NHL coverage available on Swikblog.
Sunday’s matinee is part of a packed NHL slate, with multiple afternoon puck drops across the league. Fans can check the full NHL Sunday schedule for start times and matchups throughout the day.
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