NHL: New York Islanders at Dallas Stars - Source: Imagn — NHL insider Jeff Marek shared insights on Dallas Stars trade deadline approach (image credit: IMAGN)

NHL Trade Rumors: Jeff Marek names team he believes will be 'aggressive' ahead of trade deadline

Modified Dec 12, 2024 17:39 GMT

The Dallas Stars are expected to be active before the NHL trade deadline in March, according to analyst Jeff Marek. Stars general manager Jim Nill plans to use the team’s $2.16 million cap space to strengthen their roster. This decision comes after Tyler Seguin was ruled out for 4-6 months due to a hip injury.

Seguin, on an eight-year contract with a $9.85 million cap hit, had 20 points in 19 games. His absence creates a gap in the lineup and gives Dallas extra motivation to improve. Internally, the Stars believe this is their best chance to compete for the Stanley Cup.

"With the unfortunate Tyler Seguin injury, GM Jim Nill is planning to be aggressive with his cap space," Daily Faceoff's Jeff Marek wrote on Tuesday. "Internally, the feeling is this is THE year to go for it, and everyone from owner Tom Gaglardi on down is aligned. And I mean big-name, big-ticket players both up front and on the back end."

Marek added that the team is targeting big-name NHL players on offense and defense. However, acquiring top talent might require trading key prospects like Logan Stankoven, Mavrik Bourque or Lian Bichsel. Nill will need to balance adding talent and protecting the team’s future.

Marek also pointed out that the timing of trades could depend on goalie Jake Oettinger’s health.

"I do wonder, however, if Dallas waits to pull the trigger on deals until after the 4 Nations Face-Off out of caution about the health of netminder Jake Oettinger," Marek wrote. "If he gets injured in the tournament, it might give Nill cause for pause."

Injuries to key players could also influence the team’s decisions.

Dallas Stars sits 2nd in NHL's central division after win over Calgary

The Dallas Stars ended a two-game losing streak with a 6-2 win over the Calgary Flames on Sunday. They are 17-10-0 and third in the Central Division.

Calgary’s Jonathan Huberdeau scored first, but Wyatt Johnston tied it 1-1 with a shorthanded goal. Jason Robertson made it 2-1 in the second period after a pass from Oskar Back before Connor Zary tied it again late in the period.

In the third, Roope Hintz redirected Esa Lindell’s pass to regain the lead for Dallas. Sam Steel extended it with a sharp-angle shot. Thomas Harley then scored twice — one via a deflection and another from the point. Jake Oettinger made 29 saves.