Analyzing The Dallas Stars Latest Free Agency Moves

NHL free agency is always one of the most interesting times of the year and ever since Jim Nill took over with the Dallas Stars, they have always been active players in the market. Whether it’s during the draft, signing new players or making big trades, Nill knows how to build a hockey team. They’ve already been busy just a few days into the 2015 free agency period and they’ve made some deals so let’s review:

Antti Niemi

This acquisition actually began during the draft. The Stars traded the 193rd pick to the Sharks for goaltender Antti Niemi who was set to become a free agent this summer. Now, the Stars were still going to have to work out a deal for him, and they did just that. On June 29th, Niemi and the Stars agreed to a 3 year, $13.5 million deal which will give him roughly $4.5 million per season.

The Stars have had many struggles with the goaltending position lately so it’s no surprise to see a power move by Jim Nill here who signed the best free agent goalie on the market this summer. The plan is to play Lehtonen and Niemi together to try to keep one another from becoming too worn down. It will be interesting to see who plays more but one thing is for sure: the Stars finally have the type of goaltending staff that could take them far in the Playoffs.

Patrick Eaves

Eaves was definitely a fan favorite last season. Though he suffered through some bad injuries, he always fought back and found a way to get back on the ice. Shortly after free agency began, the Stars signed him back to a one year deal.

Eaves scored 14 goals in 47 games last season, including 6 on the power play which was just another reason to bring him back. His high energy play and willingness to put his body in front of the puck was something the Stars just could not pass up. He got a few opportunities to play on the same line as Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn last season and that really helped him expand his game. Stars fans look forward to seeing him back out there.

Curtis McKenzie

McKenzie made his NHL debut last season and he did not start silently. He was known for always getting in scuffles when the Stars weren’t doing so well and it would really energize the team. He had 5 goals in 36 games and showed promise as a rookie which is why the Stars gave him a new two year contract. I would expect him to stay on the 3rd or 4th line much like he did last season.

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His experience playing with Benn, Seguin and especially Spezza created a lot of success for him. He really learned a lot on how to make his game more well-rounded as well as how to control the puck better. Keep an eye on McKenzie because he could be in Dallas for years to come.

What’s Next?

Though the Stars have let a few guys go to different teams such as Shawn Horcoff (Anaheim), I expect them to still be active and make a few more moves before the season starts such as locking up a defenseman. Cody Franson is a name that the Stars have been hovering around and a few experts believe they could be onto something bigger than that due to rumors around the league. Overall, the Stars have played the offseason perfectly and I look forward to seeing what their roster looks like in October!

Next: Ranking My Top 5 Favorite Dallas Stars Games Of The Year