Dallas Stars 2014-15 Player Grades: Vernon Fiddler

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 20 or more games this season (and finished the season with the organization) - 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.

It would be difficult to fairly evaluate the 2015 season of Vern Fiddler. He played the role of a defensive minded center on a team that at times had no real interest in playing defense. So how do we adequately judge his contributions?

Fiddler set a career high in goals this year with 15. His 29 points were his most of his tenure with the Stars and the third most of his career. He led the Stars in shorthanded TOI/60. Fiddler was a 51.7% faceoff guy. He did a lot of really useful things which is all you can ask from a depth player down the lineup.

An overall view of fancy stats is going to be unkind to what Fiddler did in 2015 to a degree because of the aforementioned tendency of the Stars to tilt toward the offensive side. The only Star with fewer shots against/60 was Patrick Eaves, but offensively he was clearly behind his Stars peers. Only Cody Eakin was on the ice for fewer shots for/60. So overall there was more negative than positive, but in depth minutes the total package of skills contributed adds up to a useful piece.

Next season Fiddler should still fill the same role. He will continue taking up a reasonable 1.2 million dollar cap hit. Fiddler isn't going to be confused for Tyler Seguin, but he fills his role appropriately. A veteran capable of doing multiple things on the bottom lines while working with young players is a quality piece to have as the Stars look to find their way back into the playoffs next season.

Now it's all up to you. How would you rate the 2015 season of Fiddler? Cast your votes in the attached poll to let the world know your feelings about Fiddler.

How would you rate the 2015 season of Vern Fiddler?