A PRO'S PRO

Do you know what would have been nice to hear after today’s 3-1 loss to the young-buck Hawks?

Not how Chicago had more talent, or more speed, or more execution.

Not how the Stars didn’t have enough guys playing to their max - or within shouting range of it.

And not how depleted the lineup is.

No, today would have been a good day to divert the attention away from the fact the Blackhawks are markedly better than the Stars this season, and how they swept the four game season series with relative ease (First time that embarrassment has been suffered versus a team since 1996-97 when they lost 3-1, 2-1, 2-1, and 3-1 to the San Jose Sharks.) and instead took time to salute the 38 year old center who trudged up and down and all around the American Airlines Center ice against the swift young Hawks, logging 17 all-purpose minutes while fighting full blown influenza.

That would have been a nice change of focus, and a deserved acknowledgement of a guy who has certainly earned it because you know what, even 19 year veterans need to know they’re appreciated from time to time.

Didn’t happen – at least not publicly – until now.

A flu-ridden Mike Modano didn’t skate yesterday at practice and he barely mustered the energy to suit up today – but he did (reportedly with an assist from an IV bag). That’s being a pro, and that’s worth praising – not hiding or overlooking.

So what if in the end it wasn’t a Jordan-esque afternoon, good on ya Mike for being there for your teammates. I hope they appreciate and learn from the professionalism – especially the young ones.

Now get some NeoCitran in that puke-hole and shut it down – the Sharks (and the Stars) will be demanding your very best 48 hours from now.