Upcoming Free Agent Decisions for the Dallas Stars
The Dallas Stars face crucial free agent decisions this offseason, impacting their future success. NHL free agency kicks off on July 1st. Here are the key free agent choices Dallas must make.
Unrestricted Free Agents
Chris Tanev
Acquired at the trade deadline, Tanev strengthened the defense and improved the team’s overall performance. Despite his desire to stay, his new contract could be costly.
Joe Pavelski
After 18 years in the NHL, including five with Dallas, Pavelski may retire. His influence on the team and young players will be hard to replace. His departure could open spots for prospects Logan Stankoven and Mavrik Bourque, provided they continue to develop.
Matt Duchene
Duchene, a second-line forward, signed a one-year deal and tied for third in points with 65. He wishes to stay, posing another important decision for the front office.
Jani Hakanpaa
Hakanpaa, sidelined for the last two months due to injury, has been a reliable third-pair defenseman. The Stars must decide whether to retain him, seek a veteran replacement, or give a new player a chance.
Craig Smith
Smith provided veteran depth on the bottom lines but saw reduced playing time as younger players emerged. He is likely to move on in 2024.
Scott Wedgewood
Wedgewood has been a dependable backup goalie, showing professionalism and improvement. However, Dallas might seek a more experienced veteran to support Jake Oettinger.
Sam Steel
Steel, on a one-year deal, settled into a fourth-line role and had his second-best career performance. At 26, he fits the young core and could be re-signed if the price is right.
Alexander Petrovic
Petrovic spent most of the season in the AHL but played a crucial role in the playoffs due to injuries, marking his NHL return after five years.
Derrick Pouliot
Pouliot played sparingly, appearing in five games and not participating in the playoffs.
Restricted Free Agents
Nils Lundkvist
As an RFA, Lundkvist’s rights remain with Dallas unless they choose not to match another team’s offer. He played 59 regular-season games but missed the series against Edmonton and Game 6 against Colorado.
Thomas Harley
Harley, also an RFA, had a solid regular season, finishing second among Dallas defensemen in points. However, his playoff production was lacking.
Ty Dellandrea
The 2018 first-round pick had a strong 2022-23 season but struggled for ice time this year. Dallas needs to assess his potential as a permanent lineup fixture or explore other options.
Matt Murray
Murray has started four games over two seasons, with a 2-2 record and one shutout. As a 26-year-old RFA, Dallas must decide his future role with the team.
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