VANCOUVER, British Columbia -- Stars coach Jim Montgomery said Gemel Smith would re-enter the lineup on Saturday afternoon, taking Valeri Nichushkin's spot. It will be the first healthy scratch of the season for Nichushkin, who has not scored a goal this year in his return from two years in the KHL.
"I think Val, he's played really well, but mentally, he needs a break," Montgomery said. "He needs to watch a game to get a little bit better, more confidence in what he's going to do. I think he's gripping it, mentally, he's gripping the stick [too tightly].