This Tiny Rookie Could Become the Stars' Biggest Surprise by 2026
Photo credit: Inside the rink
One of the Dallas Stars' most intriguing young prospects, Cameron Schmidt, has quietly become a name to watch after scoring 78 WHL points last season, and his breakout potential is starting to draw attention.
Cameron Schmidt may not have been a top‑ten draft pick, but the third‑rounder from the 2025 NHL Draft is already turning heads.
The 5‑foot‑8 winger posted 40 goals and 78 points in 61 games with the Vancouver Giants, showing his speed, skill, and grit despite his smaller frame.
Scouts see him as another undersized success story in the making for Dallas, in the same mold as Jason Robertson, Wyatt Johnston, and Logan Stankoven.
At the Stars' development camp, Schmidt earned praise for his net‑front presence, explosiveness, and surprising strength, with Vancouver Giants head coach Manny Viveiros calling him one of the most powerful players on the team.
His playing style, combined with his willingness to focus on positioning and hockey IQ, makes him a perfect fit for the Stars' development model.
You can read more about his potential in this profile from NHL.com's deep dive on Schmidt's development path.
Cameron Schmidt's scoring ability could help the Dallas Stars follow their success with Jason Robertson
If Schmidt adapts well in the AHL this season, he could become the next unexpected star in Dallas's system, strengthening their forward depth just like past later‑round picks.
The Stars have built a reputation for finding these overlooked players and turning them into game‑changers, and Schmidt could be the next in line.
Fans are already calling his draft slot a steal, as highlighted in Blackout Dallas's feature on his potential impact.
The Stars may have drafted him as a «project», but his numbers, drive, and adaptability are making him one of the organization's most exciting names to watch.
TRENDING NOW
