" Severin Blindenbacher is going to help the Stars organization this season – it's just a question of at what level. The 27-year-old defenseman from Zurich , Switzerland is making a huge transition. Signed as a free agent after playing in the Swedish Elite League, Blindenbacher is hoping to land a job in the NHL. His first test was Tuesday, in the Stars' first preseason game, a 4-2 loss to Tampa Bay at the American Airlines Center. But, in the process, he will have to learn a much faster game that is played on a significantly smaller ice surface than he played in Europe. "It is quicker and you have to make adjustments, and I know it will take time," Blindenbacher said. "So I will be patient." The Stars will, too. They can afford to be. Blindenbacher signed a two-way contract that will pay him $900,000 plus bonuses if he plays at the NHL level, and $67,500 if he plays in the AHL. With all seven of the Dallas defensemen returning from last season, Blindenbacher becomes a project who must force his way into the lineup. "He's a solid player with a solid background who just has to learn to play this game," said Stars coach Marc Crawford. "We have the time to give him some time." " http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcon...ars/stories/092210dnspostarslede.29227b7.html
