Dallas Stars being urged to sign this proven top-four defenseman
Photo credit: The Hockey News
The Dallas Stars' training camp is just around the corner, yet one of the top free agent defensemen, Matt Grzelcyk, is still without a team.
Grzelcyk, fresh off a 40-point season with the Pittsburgh Penguins, remains unsigned despite proving last year that he can still handle a top-four role.
With time running out before opening night, playoff contenders looking for an experienced puck mover may see an opportunity, and the Dallas Stars could be one of them.
The Stars already have a strong defensive core, but there are question marks. Nils Lundkvist remains a wildcard in terms of consistency and health, and Alex Petrovic is more of a depth option than a regular lineup piece.
That opens the door for a short-term veteran addition.
Dallas Stars could benefit from Grzelcyk's stability and puck movement
According to The Hockey News, Grzelcyk could fit into Dallas's top four, potentially pushing Ilya Lyubushkin into a more comfortable third-pairing role.
Another possibility is pairing him with Lundkvist or prospect Lian Bichsel on the third unit, adding balance to the lineup.
The financial side might not be a barrier. If Dallas carries 13 forwards, they could have around $2 million in cap space, enough for a one-year deal at this stage of the offseason.
Grzelcyk's experience and skating would give Dallas another reliable option for playoff runs, something that could prove vital after three straight Western Conference Final exits.
For me, adding him would be a smart low-risk move that could pay off in May.
Of course, the Stars aren't the only ones who might be interested. The St. Louis Blues and Calgary Flames have also been floated as potential suitors.
But if Dallas moves quickly, they could secure one of the last impact defensemen on the market.
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