Blues Dim Stars In Opener

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"That's what the playoffs are all about," Blues coach Joel Quenneville said. "Sometimes guys you don't expect end up coming through for you – not that we don't think Marty can do that."

Dallas might have lost more than just a game as Mike Modano limped off the ice with an injured left leg in the second period. He didn't return and his status for Game 2 on Sunday is unknown.

"He's our best player," Dallas coach Ken Hitchcock said. "So it would be as deflating as if St. Louis lost Turgeon. We'll evaluate it tomorrow and give you a complete update after practice."

Pavol Demitra and Pierre Turgeon also scored for the Blues, who took advantage of the Stars' uncharacteristically sloppy defensive play that gave little help to goalie Ed Belfour.

"This was one of the worst games that we've played in some time," said Derian Hatcher. "We weren't ready to play, that's the bottom line."

Roman Turek in the Blues' net delivered another strong performance. Turek made key saves during a power play late in the third period as Dallas tried to rally.

"Roman had a strong game, especially in the third period. We weren't very happy with the way we played in that period, but he came up big for us," said Quenneville. "He's comfortable and confident in the net and it's showing."