NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Edmonton Oilers at Dallas Stars - Source: Imagn — Looking at why the Dallas Stars' decision to part ways with Pete DeBoer may have been a mistake (image credit: IMAGN)

3 reasons why Dallas Stars made a mistake firing Pete DeBoer

Modified Jun 07, 2025 16:12 GMT

The Dallas Stars parted ways with coach Pete DeBoer on Thursday. It was an unsurprising move that came on the heels of the team's third straight elimination in the conference finals.

While his decision to bench Jake Oettinger was widely criticized, here are three reasons why Dallas may have made a mistake firing DeBoer after just three seasons.

Three reasons why Dallas may have made a mistake firing Pete DeBoer

NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Dallas Stars at Winnipeg Jets - Source: Imagn

#1: Three straight conference finals appearances

During his three seasons with Dallas, Pete DeBoer guided the team to three straight conference finals appearances.

Failing to reach the Stanley Cup final was likely a big reason why he was fired; however, three straight conference finals appearances is nothing to scoff at.

Prior to hiring DeBoer, Dallas made it to the Stanley Cup final just once since the 2001 season.

NHL: Stanley Cup Playoffs-Winnipeg Jets at Dallas Stars - Source: Imagn

#2: Regular season success

Before Pete DeBoer was hired, Dallas only posted one 50-win season since 2007. During DeBoer's tenure, he logged 50-win campaigns in two of his three years with the team.

While regular season success won't give Dallas its second Stanley Cup, DeBoer led the team to 52 wins in 2023-24, and 50 victories this campaign.

Additionally, DeBoer's 149 wins with Dallas placed him behind only Lindy Ruff, Dave Tippett and Ken Hitchcock on the team's winningest coaches list.

#3: Veteran leadership

While the Dallas Stars are looking to cement themselves as Stanley Cup contenders, they may struggle to find a coach who commands as much respect, and has as much experience as DeBoer.

Throughout his coaching career, DeBoer has posted a 662-447-152 record. His 662 wins are fourth among active coaches, behind Lindy Ruff, Paul Maurice. and Joel Quenneville. Quenneville is also second on the NHL's list of coaches with the most career wins.

About the author

Evan Bell is a journalist specializing in the NBA and NHL at Sportskeeda, whose love for the game stems from a childhood spent watching the Chicago Bulls. He has been there through their highs and lows, from the Jordan era to the exciting Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah years.

Evan finds the 82-game season and the intensity of playoff basketball exhilarating, and he also revels in the offseason drama. Phil Jackson stands out as his favorite coach, whom he admires for his composed leadership and success in managing dynamic personalities like Dennis Rodman.

To deliver top-quality content, Evan fact-checks information while diligently keeping up with the action year-round.

When he's not writing, Evan follows tennis and Greek football, and also plays basketball and tennis.

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