Dallas Stars rookie defenseman Lian Bichsel has been ruled out for the upcoming game against the Winnipeg Jets due to illness. This absence comes as the Stars, currently in second place in the Central Division, aim to close an 8-point gap with the Jets ahead of their matchup on Friday.

Bichsel has contributed to the Stars this season with two goals and three assists, averaging just under 15 minutes of ice time per game. In his absence, veteran Brendan Smith will step in, having not played since early March. Additionally, Kyle Capobianco has been recalled from the Texas Stars to join the team on their road trip.

The Stars are on a roll, having won five of their last six games, which sets the stage for an exciting clash with the Jets as they look to gain ground in the tightly contested Central Division.