The Dallas Stars have plenty of moves to make this offseason.
A third consecutive Western Conference Finals loss is a frustrating feeling for any team, particularly one with so much talent. The Stars did re-sign captain Jamie Benn to a one-year deal, and have to address other UFAs such as Mikael Granlund, Evgenii Dadonov, Cody Cecil, and Colin Blackwell.
But with under $1 million in cap space, general manager Jim Nill needs to get creative with his money to ensure another legitimate shot at a deep postseason run.
That’s why it was so surprising when Jeff Marek said on “Leafs Morning Take” that he could see Dallas getting into the mix for Brad Marchand, if he hits free agency.
Marchand figures to sign somewhere in the three or four-year, $7-$8 million range this offseason, although that figure could dip if he stays with the Florida Panthers on a hometown discount.
Hockey-wise, Marchand is a perfect fit on the Stars. He would fit seamlessly on any of the top three forward lines and would have no problems with any of Roope Hintz, Wyatt Johnston, or Matt Duchene as his centerman.
The Stars also have a nice mix of young talent and veteran leaders, and Marchand would make for an excellent fit alongside Benn, Duchene, and his old Boston Bruins Stanley Cup-winning teammate, Tyler Seguin.
But, as much as the Marchand pipe dream will excite Stars fans, it would likely require a Robertson trade to free up his $7.75 million owed next year. Marchand had an incredible run with the Panthers and would boost any contender, but this feels like a fantasy more than a reality.
