The Dallas Stars announced today that they have re-signed Roman Polak to a 1-year contract extension worth $1.75 million.
The new deal is a small pay raise for Polak, who came to Dallas last year on a one year, $1.3 million contract. Expected to provide a steady, veteran presence on the third pairing, Polak ended up getting thrust into the second pairing alongside rookie Miro Heiskanen when defenseman Stephen Johns missed the entire season due to injury.
Polak has been a divisive player among the fanbase. Some see a player who performed well compared to expectations heading into the season. Others see a player who continued to get big minutes despite not playing well enough:
Polak is the second Stars defenseman to get a contract extension so far this offseason, the other being Esa Lindell. By bringing back Polak, the Stars could roll with the same Top 4 next season, barring a trade, free agency acquisition, or Johns returning from injury.
Here is what Stars general manager Jim Nill had to say about re-signing Polak:
”Roman personifies what it means to be a professional and his mentorship to our younger players proved to be invaluable to our organization,” said Nill. “His team-first attitude and physical style of play is endearing to both his teammates and the coaching staff, and we’re thrilled to have him back.”
You can read the full press release here.