Blue Notes

It'll be a rare family affair here in Dallas tonight.

With Mike Modano placed on IR, the Stars late yesterday recalled center Joel Lundqvist and for the first time in NHL history, a twin brother who is a forward will face an identical twin who is a goaltender.

The identical twins were in contact last night, and spoke briefly while Joel was on the ice at about 10:50 this morning. Henrik, who hadn't put on his equipment because the Rangers were skating after the Stars, came out of the locker room and stood watching the Stars skate from between the benches. Joel, who had been up for four games before being sent down to Iowa, and Henrik briefly exchanged greetings and planned on meeting after the game.

Close up, the resemblance is remarkable, even with Henrik's beard.

In speaking with each of them today, their personalities are similarly engaging. Their parents, Peter and Eva, will be able to see the game because they have arrived in New York from Sweden to spend the holidays first with Henrik and then, Joel.

The two have never faced each other, except practicing as youngsters, but Joel says if he comes in on a breakway, he'll know how to score. Great stuff from both fellows.

I'll have plenty more on this later and in tomorrow's paper.

Also, Garden boss James Dolan is on the trip and will meet with several writers before the game to discuss the team. We'll update you on that during the game and also in tomorrow's editions.

As for the lineups, Mike Smith, who hasn't played in 10 days, will be in goal for the Stars. Aaron Ward and Petr Prucha are expected back after one-game scratches for the Rangers.

Stay tuned