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Morning skate update: Patrick Sharp back in as Stars try to focus on strong defensive play

Lindy Ruff has been pushing defensive responsibility throughout his team all season, and the return of Patrick Sharp could help that goal tonight.

The Stars are first in the NHL in scoring at 3.20 goals per game and first in the Western Conference at 41-21-9, but they have struggled defensively. Ruff said the push in the final 11 games is to get that part of the game in order.

"My meeting this morning is what we wanted when we started the year, and that was improved play away from the puck," Ruff said as the team prepared to play Tampa Bay Thursday.