Texas Stars make history with a huge long-term contract to key player
Photo credit: 100 degree hockey
In a league where one-year contracts are the norm, defenseman Michael Karow just made Texas Stars history by signing a rare three-year AHL deal, becoming the first player in franchise history to do so.
It's not often that minor-league signings grab attention, but this one speaks volumes.
After two rock-solid seasons with the Texas Stars-appearing in 68 and 71 games respectively-Karow has earned a level of trust and responsibility that few AHL blueliners receive.
The deal, as confirmed in a recent 100 Degree Hockey feature, marks the organization's first-ever commitment of that length.
Michael Karow's three-year deal gives stability to both his family and the Texas Stars' blue line
Karow told 100 Degree Hockey in a phone interview:
«To be able to secure that stability for three years for my family with a newborn on the way coming up here in November, it's big,»
The Stars initially offered a two-year deal, but Karow and his agent pushed for a longer term, knowing how rare it is in the AHL.
To his surprise, Texas GM Scott White was open to it.
«We love the area; we love the team Thankfully, Whitey was pretty receptive to it.»
This isn't the first three-year deal in AHL history-Logan Shaw signed one with the Toronto Marlies in 2022-but it's still incredibly rare, especially for a defense-first player who has never been drafted or played an NHL game.
Karow's value goes beyond the scoresheet. He's a plug-and-play defender who can slot in anywhere from the third pair to top minutes in emergencies.
He also brings consistency and mentorship.
«One thing I always grew up hearing is 'availability is the best ability.' To go out there in different situations and contribute positively that's what I aim for,»
At 26 years old and with a young family, the longer deal provides something many AHL players don't get: peace of mind.
And with players like Thomas Harley having graduated to the NHL, Karow's veteran presence on the Texas blue line becomes even more valuable.
He's also quietly becoming a leader, even if he's humble about it.
«There's 20 guys that could wear a letter in there,»
he said, before acknowledging that experience often naturally leads to leadership.I think Karow could wear a letter soon, if not this season.
From a team-building perspective, the move is smart. From a human angle, it's even better.
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