Dallas Stars' insider was VERY harsh about Wyatt Johnson and his lack of support
When a team falls short in the playoffs, tough conversations always follow.
And this time, rising Dallas Stars center Wyatt Johnston found himself at the center of one.
During a segment on the Stars broadcast, the DLLS Stars podcast analysts didn't hold back when addressing criticism that Johnston didn't get enough help from his linemates during the postseason.
Instead of blaming the supporting cast, Newkirk and the guys pointed the finger directly at the 21-year-old forward, and the expectations that come with his new contract.
Owen Newkirk calls out Wyatt Johnston's role, saying high-paid players must create their own support
Johnston is entering the first year of his new $8.4 million AAV contract, a deal that makes him the fifth-highest paid player on the Stars roster. Only Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, Miro Heiskanen and Mikko Rantanen are above him.
Newkirk's comments were blunt:
«You make $8.4 million in this league, you have to bring your own support. I'm gonna be the crass person about it, you're the fourth-highest paid player on the team. You make $500k less than Miro Heiskanen. You are making that much money, you have to create your own support.»
Can Wyatt Johnston elevate his game and prove he's worth the money?
It's rare to hear such honesty from team media, but the point is clear. Big money brings big expectations, and while Johnston is still incredibly young, the bar has been raised.
Last season, Johnston posted 65 points in 82 games and added strong moments in the playoffs, but critics argued that his line lacked chemistry and consistent finishing.
Still, I think calling out a 21-year-old this directly might be a bit much, especially considering how much he's already done at his age.
If anything, it puts even more pressure on him to take that «next step» this fall.
| POLL | ||
JUILLET 31 | 72 ANSWERS Dallas Stars' insider was VERY harsh about Wyatt Johnson and his lack of support Do you think Wyatt Johnston will live up to his $8.4 million contract in 2025-26? | ||
| Yes | 57 | 79.2 % |
| No | 15 | 20.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
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