DALLAS -- Jim Montgomery wanted to see an offensive spark from Roope Hintz on Monday night. He didn't have to wait long.
As the preseason reached its halfway mark this week, Hintz is a fourth-line hopeful for the Stars, but was elevated to the top line for Monday's exhibition 5-3 win over Minnesota, given an opportunity to flash his skill with Jamie Benn and Alexander Radulov on his wings.
Hintz's first chance to make an impression sailed wide after an open look about nine minutes into the first period. His next chance arrived soon. Seconds later, John Klingberg fed Hintz speeding across the blue line and splitting a pair of Wild defensemen.