Dallas Stars Training Camp Day 1: Modano Moving To a Wing Could Provide Spark

After an exciting day one at the Stars training camp there is some news to report. News that would change 21 years worth of perspective, mainly the perspective of Stars center Mike Modano.

On Friday during camp Modano was moved from his center position to that of a left wing with Brad Richards centering and Sean Avery on the right wing. According to Mike Heika of the Dallas Morning News it is an experiment coach Dave Tippett will continue to evaluate.

"That was interesting to me," Tippett said in Heika’s day one blog. "You'll probably see parts of that as we move forward."

Although Modano was a checking line center last season, and did well in his role his legs are still perfect for a second line spot, even if it is on the wing.

"It's probably experimental, but we'll see how it goes," Modano said of Tippett's decision in the Stars blog. "He likes having the options he does. I'm sure he's gone through 1,000 formations in his head and on the board. We'll give it a try and see what happens. You can always go back to what we had."

The move itself is mutually good for both centers involved. Likely both Richards and Modano’s numbers would improve and the chemistry found during training camp could make this second line, if it lasts, one of the most dangerous in the NHL. If this move sticks it would also likely mean Joel Lundqvist would move from wing into the spot left open by Modano on the checking line.

"I think it would just take some time with Brad to get an idea of what he likes to do," Modano said in the Stars blog. "He's good carrying that puck, and he likes making plays. If you can get open, the guy can get it to you."

Saturday will mean more excitement for the camp, and likely the first real test for the experimental second line as Group A and Group B will scrimmage at 11:15am, and have separate practices at 10am and 12:30pm. All Stars workouts and practices are at the Dr. Pepper StarsCenter in Frisco and are open to the public.

For Marty Turco’s take on day one of camp, click here.

All information is courtesy of Mike Heika’s Dallas Stars blog found on the Dallas Morning News website.

Photo: Courtesy of Dallas Stars blog on the Dallas Morning News website.

Ken Armer is a senior hockey writer and a Community Leader for the NHL and Dallas Stars. You can contact him on his profile or via e-mail at [e-mail]