As the NHL free agency period kicked off on July 1, the Dallas Stars’ defense options quickly garnered attention. The team traded Chris Tanev’s unrestricted free agent rights to Toronto just before free agency started, highlighting the need to strengthen their blue line.
Additionally, Dallas bought out veteran Ryan Suter to free up salary cap space. With these moves, the team was left with only three returning defensemen: Miro Heiskanen, Esa Lindell, and Alex Petrovic on a two-way contract. They retained Thomas Harley as a restricted free agent with a qualifying offer and allowed Nils Lundkvist to become an unrestricted free agent before re-signing him. GM Jim Nill explained that not qualifying Lundkvist was a strategic move, considering his arbitration rights.
Both Tanev and Suter will be missed for their unique contributions. Tanev provided defensive stability and toughness, while Suter offered veteran leadership. Their departures add to the loss of other experienced players like Joe Pavelski and Radek Faksa.
In response, the Stars signed veterans Matt Dumba, Brendan Smith, and Ilya Lyubushkin. Dumba, familiar to fans from his time with Minnesota, brings a well-rounded skill set despite past playoff rivalries. Nill also drafted Smith during his tenure with Detroit, adding offensive depth to the blue line. Lyubushkin, signed to a three-year deal, is expected to bolster the penalty kill and fill Jani Hakanpaa’s role.
Looking at the defense pairings, Harley and Heiskanen are likely to lead as the top pair, having been the team’s top scorers on defense last season. Lindell is expected to remain on the second pair, potentially alongside Dumba or Smith. Dumba’s balanced play gives him an edge over the offensively-inclined Smith, who could take on a third-pair role and provide leadership in Suter’s absence.
The competition for the last two defensive spots will be intense. Lyubushkin and Lundkvist are frontrunners, given their contracts and skill sets, with Lyubushkin’s physical play possibly giving him an advantage. Lian Bichsel is another player to watch, having impressed during the Western Conference Final, though he may need more experience. Petrovic, on a two-way contract, offers flexibility for call-ups from the AHL.
Ultimately, the final defense roster will be determined by player performance in training camp, as emphasized by Nill, who welcomes the depth and competition within the team.
