Believe it or not, Dallas Stars standout Jamie Benn told ESPN’s Mark Stepneski that he’s “feeling fine, normal” after taking a jarring amount of abuse on Tuesday night. In fact, Stars coach Glen Gulutzan indicates that he won’t miss a game.
The headline hit was Shane Doan’s elbow, but Benn took an absolute beating from the Phoenix Coyotes. Some even wondered if the Coyotes were “head hunting” the first-time All-Star.
Just looking at the most bombastic blows after the Doan hit, defenseman Derek Morris clobbered him and Antoine Vermette landed a check that forced Benn to spend some time in the Stars’ tunnel, which the NBC camera crews caught in somewhat disturbing detail. (There might even be a collision or two that slipped under the radar; he seriously took a beating.)
Considering that litany of scary moments, it was hard not to wonder if Benn hit his latest rough patch of injuries. (He’s had his fair share of bad luck this season, after all.)
That’s either not the case or Benn refuses to be sidelined during a crucial stretch for the Stars, who remain atop the Pacific Division but could very well miss the playoffs altogether if they slump badly.
It’s showings of toughness like this - not just his world class skills - that make the pending restricted free agent seem worth whatever he’ll receive in his next contract.
If he makes it that far, that is.