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DALLAS — If you listen to Dallas Stars’ coach Ken Hitchcock talk about centre Jason Spezza, you’d think his NHL career is winding down.

Or maybe he’s just on borrowed time in a Dallas uniform.

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The 34-year-old former Senators’ captain was part of a blockbuster trade when he was dealt to the Stars by Ottawa on July 1, 2014 and while the decision to fire Lindy Ruff at the end of last season has turned the franchise’s fortunes around, the move hasn’t been good for Spezza.

Since Hitchcock took over, Spezza’s ice time has taken a hit, he’s moved to the second unit of the power play, plus he’s been used at both centre and on the wing.

With only 7-17-24 points in 64 games before facing Ottawa Monday night at American Airlines Center, he’s on pace for the worst offensive year of his career.

Spezza said the transition to a reduced role hasn’t been easy.

“It’s been an adjustment year, for sure. It’s been challenging for me,” said Spezza, selected No. 2 overall by the Senators in the 2001 NHL entry draft. “I don’t play as much as I used to. I think (Hitchcock) sees me in a different role and a different light and I’m trying to adapt to that.