As the NHL season approaches, the Dallas Stars are poised to make a significant impact in the Western Conference. Following a strong 2023-24 season where they finished first in the Central Division with a 52-21-9 record, the Stars are aiming to build on their recent success.
Contract Extensions and Player Signings
The Dallas Stars have been active in securing key players with contract extensions. Recently, they signed defenseman Thomas Harley to a two-year, $8 million extension, ensuring his presence on the team with an average annual value (AAV) of $4 million. This move follows the five-year extension given to defenseman Esa Lindell, worth $5.25 million per season, which was announced on September 17.
These signings are crucial as the Stars prepare for another competitive season, especially after falling short in the Western Conference Final for the second consecutive year. The team's general manager, Jim Nill, expressed optimism about the team's current state, noting they are ahead of where they were last season.
Player Profiles and Contributions
Several players are expected to play pivotal roles in the upcoming season. Jason Robertson, despite missing the majority of training camp due to an injury, is ranked as the 6th best wing in the NHL. His absence from training camp has been a focus of discussion, but his impact on the team is undeniable.
Logan Stankoven has also been highlighted as a key player, having excelled in both the AHL and NHL during the 2023-24 season. Stankoven's performance has marked him as a top contender and a potential steal from the 2021 NHL draft.
Tyler Seguin, a veteran forward, was among the team leaders in playoff scoring last season with 13 points in 19 postseason games. His renewed chemistry with linemate Matt Duchene was evident in a preseason win over the Colorado Avalanche, where they combined for three of the Stars' goals.
Preseason and Training Camp
The Dallas Stars began their training camp on October 3, with several new faces and challenges ahead. The team announced its 2024-25 training camp roster and schedule, which includes a series of preseason games to fine-tune their lineup and strategies.
In their preseason gameday lineup against the St. Louis Blues, the Stars will be testing their depth and new combinations. This preseason will be crucial in preparing the team for the competitive Central Division, where teams like the St. Louis Blues are also looking to improve their standings[10-3-24 St. Louis Blues-Dallas Stars Preseason Gameday Lineup][Central Division Preview Series 2.0: St. Louis improves, but still singing the Blues].
Retirements and New Partnerships
The Stars have also seen some changes in their roster with the retirement of veteran defenseman Jordie Benn after 12 NHL seasons. Additionally, Joe Pavelski officially retired from the NHL on July 16, marking the end of an era for the team.
On the business side, the Dallas Stars have partnered with MoneyGram to provide access to hockey, and they have also announced a partnership with Ideal Dental as their official dentist partner. These partnerships reflect the team's commitment to community engagement and player health.
For fans, the Stars have announced that their games will be available for free streaming through Victory+, starting from September 11. This includes commentary from Daryl 'Razor' Reaugh and Josh Bogorad, who have signed extensions with the team.
As the Dallas Stars prepare for another competitive season, their focus on player development, strategic signings, and community engagement sets them up for a strong run in the 2024-25 NHL season. The team's history and dedication to excellence are hallmarks of their commitment to the sport, much like the National Hockey League itself.
