This AHL rookie of the year projected to crack the Stars' top six as soon as this year

The Dallas Stars may have found their next breakout forward, and his name is Justin Hryckowian.

After winning the AHL's Dudley (Red) Garrett Memorial Award as Rookie of the Year, Hryckowian is making a serious case for a spot on the Stars' roster this fall.

He finished the season with 60 points in 67 games for the Texas Stars, the highest rookie total by an undrafted player in team history.

He didn't just score, he drove play, played responsibly in all zones, and showed up in big moments with power play production and a +15 rating.

Hryckowian made his NHL debut with the Dallas Stars on December 29 in Chicago and recorded his first point, an assist, just a few weeks later against Detroit. His ability to keep pace in the NHL during those five games gave management plenty to think about.

Stars fans have begun speculating whether Hryckowian could slot into a top-six forward role sometime this season, possibly alongside Matt Duchene and Tyler Seguin.

He was also named to the AHL All-Rookie Team, selected for the AHL All-Star Classic, and even won Rookie of the Month in December, accolades that point to just how consistent and impactful his first pro season was.

Hryckowian's college-to-pro jump has been nothing short of impressive. Signed out of Northeastern University in March 2024, the L'Île-Bizard, Quebec native has made it clear he doesn't intend to stay in the minors for long.

Personally, I think Hryckowian is closer to earning a full-time NHL job than people realize, especially if injuries or line shuffles create an opening in Dallas.