In two hours and 28 minutes on Friday night, throughout a critical 3-1 win over Minnesota at the American Airlines Center, the argument was on display.
In a season in which the Stars have swayed from fast and fun to plodding and boring, they were impressive in beating a division rival. They jumped to third place in the Central Division, and are riding a three-game win streak. They are firmly in a playoff race in the crowded Western Conference.
As the trade deadline approaches in just over three weeks, general manager Jim Nill will be faced with a decision: does he add more to the Stars?