KARIDEXTROUS

If so, let's hope they find their way to Dallas.

We were spoiled by years of witnessing Jere Lehtinen's tenacious and brilliant 2-way play. Now it's Kari Lehtonen who is providing spellbinding netminding game in and game out.

Kari isn't the only reason the Stars have lept out to a 5-1 record. Oh wait, yes, yes he is.

The big Finn has been strafed rather routinely as the retooled lineup in front of him searches for footing and consistency. Sure the quality of shots have been downgraded a tad under new bench boss Glen Gulutzan but the quantity has kept Kari in a full lather.

He's been a mistake eraser, a momentum dictator, and a game stealer.

Here's a couple terrific stats to chew on: Since the start of last season Lehtonen is 5-1 in games he has faced 40 or more shots, and a staggering 11-2-3 in 16 career home games in which he was peppered with 40+ shots.

Sure those statistics suggest they don't have to, but this team is going to tighten up and get better as the season progresses. Let's just hope they don't wear the latest "Lehts" out in the meantime.