A DEARTH OF PICKS
EFFICIENCY IS THE
watchword for the Stars ahead of the 2020 draft, and it’s a familiar concept for the organization given that it has only one pick, a first-round selection, in the first three rounds for the second straight year. Last year, Dallas did well with its lone early-round choice, nabbing defenseman Thomas Harley 18th overall. Now, the Stars are hoping to hit again, particularly given the needs that permeate throughout the roster’s lower rungs. IMMEDIATE NEEDS: The Stars could use some depth attackers. Roope Hintz and Denis Gurianov have complemented current weapons, and Ty Dellandrea and Jason Robertson are on the way. However, the core of the offense is aging. Even Tyler Seguin is on the wrong side of his prime. Dallas needs to discover players who can carry the torch once the inevitable downswing arrives for its top talents. LONG-TERM NEEDS: Dallas’ defense corps could use another piece given Julius Honka’s time with the team is all but over. The fractured relationship between the Stars and a rearguard once believed to be a future top-four fixture means there’s a gap on the blueline. Harley’s upside makes him a qualified candidate, but adding more prospect depth is key. CAP SITUATION: Some money is coming off the books, but goaltending has to be a consideration. Ben Bishop has formed one of the best blue-paint batteries in the NHL alongside Anton Khudobin, but the latter’s UFA status could leave the Stars with a void behind their oft-injured No. 1.
IN THE SYSTEM 2020-21: One crease option if Khudobin leaves is Jake Oettinger. The Texas Stars netminder’s .917 save percentage was tops among AHL rookies. What Dallas will have to decide, though, is if limited NHL reps or full-time AHL duty is better for Oettinger’s development. DID YOU KNOW: Albin Eriksson had a season to forget. The prospect winger bounced between five teams in Sweden and produced just two goals and five points in 37 games.