I think this is the part of the season called "put up or shut up."
While the Stars might find themselves in seventh place by the standings, just a single point separates them from fourth place and the current holders of that playoff spot come to town tonight. The other two, Rockford and Milwaukee, are also in action this evening at the exact same time.
A schedule with more playoff implications couldn't have been constructed if you tried.
The most important thing right now, and this should be obvious, is to get the two points. The next most important thing is to ensure Manitoba gets zero points.