The Dallas Stars have felt the sting of losing key players, but their latest signings promise to add depth and strength to the team.
In a conversation following Monday’s free agency blitz, I was asked, “Are the Stars better than they were at the end of last season?” This question gains significance considering the team must replace the contributions of both Chris Tanev and Joe Pavelski. However, a more insightful question might be, “Are the Stars better than they were at the start of last season?” This perspective can deepen the discussion.
Key Departures and Contributions
The Stars are losing significant contributors. Joe Pavelski, who scored 67 points (27 goals, 40 assists) in 82 games, Chris Tanev, a standout in the playoffs, and Ryan Suter, who had 17 points and a plus-14 rating, are all departing. Craig Smith (11 goals, 9 assists), Radek Faksa (7 goals, 12 assists), and Ty Dellandrea (2 goals, 7 assists) provided depth on the fourth line. Pavelski, turning 40, Suter, at 39, and Tanev, who played just 19 regular-season games, are leaving big shoes to fill.
New Signings: A New Hope
Enter Matt Dumba, Ilya Lyubushkin, and Brendan Smith. These new additions might not only fill the void but bring a fresh dynamic to the team. Dumba, at 29, is ten years younger than Suter and has averaged 20:37 per game in his career. Though not a prolific scorer, his edge can add a missing element to the team. Dallas ranked last in penalty minutes and second to last in hits last season, areas where Dumba could make an impact.
Lyubushkin, another right shot, and Smith, a veteran known well by GM Jim Nill from their Detroit days, can help the defense gel. Smith averaged 16 minutes per game with New Jersey last season and can play both sides, providing flexibility and time for younger players like Nils Lundkvist and Lian Bichsel to develop.
Strategic Adjustments
The Stars wanted to keep Tanev, who joined late last season, but his departure opens the door for strategic adjustments. If managed well, Dallas could make another trade deadline pickup to boost their defense. The current lineup, with Miro Heiskanen, Thomas Harley, and Esa Lindell as the core, looks promising.
Forward Line Upgrades
Pavelski will be missed, especially on the top line with Roope Hintz and Jason Robertson, but the playoffs highlighted the need for new combinations. This opens opportunities for players like Wyatt Johnston, Logan Stankoven, and Mavrik Bourque to step into significant roles. Johnston, who improved from 41 points in his rookie season to 65 last year, could potentially challenge for 80 points next season. Stankoven and Bourque also have the potential to be .20-goal scorers in their rookie seasons, adding youth and speed to the lineup.
Losing Faksa, a key penalty killer, is tough, but Sam Steel’s performance last season showed the harsh realities of pro sports. Faksa’s $3.25 million salary can now contribute to a substantial raise for Harley, highlighting the business side of the game.
Final Thoughts
Dallas added 31-year-old Colin Blackwell to bolster forward depth, and the AHL squad could push for roster spots in camp. Despite the changes, the Stars seem well-positioned for a solid start in October. While the losses are notable, the team’s strategic moves have put them in a strong position to navigate upcoming challenges.
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