There used to be a time that Dallas Stars fans had only a few prospects to look forward to, if any. In the height of bankruptcy, the cupboards were fairly bare. Depth was supplied through veteran NHL signings versus youth coming up from the AHL.
Joe Nieuwendyk started the turnaround on restocking the prospect system, and Jim Nill has continued to build a very nice prospect pool. In fact, the Stars have several with the Texas Stars that could see time at the NHL level already this year.
While the roster appears to be set, there is always the chance that someone could play well enough in training camp to force a move to make a spot. Here’s the top three most likely, in my mind, that we should keep an eye on.
Radek Faksa
Seems to be a natural fit on the third line, but would have to unseat Cody Eakin to get a shot at center. Could play on the wing to adjust to the NHL level. Has been setback by injuries, but could be ready to make the next step if he’s healthy.
Julius Honka
Honka impressed in his rookie year in the AHL. He’s still young, so he might be more of a long shot than others, but his offensive instincts on the back end could be appealing if an injury occurs in Dallas to the puck-moving defensemen already on the roster.
Stephen Johns
Johns may be the unknown factor, but his style of game seems to be the one that is most missing on the Dallas roster. Big, bruising, defensive defenseman that could add some size to a smaller blueline in Dallas. He feels he is ready, but is he better than a Jordie Benn or Jamie Oleksiak to force a move on an already crowded blueline..
Which player would you most want to see in Dallas at the start of next year?
Who do you most want to see make the Dallas Stars roster out of camp?
| Radek Faksa | 232 |
| Julius Honka | 123 |
| Stephen Johns | 795 |
| Someone else (tell us in the comments) | 60 |