Dallas Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger already has achieved an off-ice highlight during his trip to his home state of Minnesota.

On Thursday evening, Oettinger will try to post an on-ice highlight, as well. He and the Stars will square off against the Minnesota Wild in Saint Paul, Minn.

The Stars arrived early and practiced Wednesday in Minnesota, which allowed Oettinger a rare in-season experience. The Lakeville, Minn., native traveled to his hometown about 30 miles south of the Wild's arena to eat a home-cooked meal with his family.

"It's unreal, just to have all the family and stuff," Oettinger said. "I grew up here, I played the state tournament here. The first thing I look for when the schedule comes out is when I get to come home. ... It's special."

The Stars are playing special

See Full Page