"Stars players did not practice Wednesday and are not required to return to practice until 2 p.m. Monday in Frisco. Gulutzan said he hopes the players get away and rest, but also that they come ready for an intense practice Monday. Dallas returns with back-to-back games Feb. 1 and 2 and will play 16 games in 29 days in February.

"I haven't dared ask them all of their plans. I'm sure they're going where it's warm so they can just lay around," Gulutzan said. "I told them take the four days and don't think about the game. But come Sunday, let's make sure Monday's not a complete, 'Oh, I've got to practice' kind of day. Start thinking about it Sunday and make sure you're prepared to be at your best on Monday.""