Casey DeSmith opens up after today's Stars practice about soaking in the rare downtime during the Olympic break. He shares his thrill watching Team USA snag gold while keeping his edge sharp for Wednesday's showdown with Seattle. With Oettinger potentially delayed by travel, DeSmith eyes the starter's crease in a system that turns backups into difference-makers down the stretch.

Casey DeSmith locks in as the confirmed starter for Wednesday's matchup, giving his team a steady glove hand between the pipes. The veteran backup steps up amid a rotation that's kept the starter fresh through a grueling stretch post-Olympics. Coaches trust his poise in tight games, where his positioning and rebound control often steal points.