Once again it's that time of year here on Defending Big D where we take a look at each player that suited up for 25 or more games this season (and are still with the team) and take a look back at their season. What was good about it, what wasn't so good, and the lasting impression they left us as we go into summer.
Key Stat: 5 minutes and 19 seconds - The difference in average time on ice for Alex between his 60 games as a Pittsburgh Penguin (20:45 TOI) and 23 games as a Dallas Star (26:04 TOI)
The Good: The initial shock and horror that many Stars fans - and hockey media in general - that GM Joe Nieuwendyk was fleeced in trading away James Neal in exchange for Goligoski quickly faded away as it became apparent that "Goose" was exactly the kind of puck moving defenseman the Stars have needed since the Zubov days in both the power play and even strength aspects of the game.
The Bad: There was bad? Well not really, although he did show flashes of ill-advised pinches and passes from time to time and as advertised when he came to Dallas, he did tend to get caught out of position in his own end. The team and fans will have to grin and bear it as Goligoski is more of an offensive minded player and not the strongest defensively.
The Bottom Line: Last summer the Stars' biggest need was a puck moving defenseman, this summer that might be one of the least required roles needed to be filled thanks to Alex. His defense may always be a concern when it comes to 5 on 5 play but at the age of 25 that part of his game could still improve next season.
The Vote: Rate Goligoski below on a scale of A to F (A being the best of course) based on his performance relative to his potential and your expectations for the half-season he was here.