Stars D Polak has fractured sternum after collision

Dallas Stars defenseman Roman Polak sustained a small fracture of his sternum and will be evaluated in a week, the team announced Friday. Polak appeared to lose his balance and went headfirst into the boards during the second period of the Stars' 2-1 season-opening loss against the visiting Boston Bruins on Thursday night.

The 33-year-old was battling for the puck with Bruins forward Chris Wagner when his head collided with the boards. The 14-year veteran was down on the ice for several minutes before he was removed on a stretcher and taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation, according to the Stars. "The good news is that Roman has full use of his extremities," Dallas coach Jim Montgomery said after the game.

Polak had a goal and eight assists in 77 games with Dallas last season.