Avalanche divisional rival drops emotional truth bomb about his future with the Stars
Photo credit: AP Photo / David Zalubowski
For the first time since being drafted by the Dallas Stars in the fifth round of the 2007 NHL Draft, forward Jamie Benn enters the offseason without a contract from the only NHL team he's ever suited up for.
Although key members of the Stars' core, like Miro Heiskanen, Mikko Rantanen, Roope Hintz, Wyatt Johnston, Esa Lindell, and Jake Oettinger, are signed long-term, the team now faces a pivotal decision regarding their longtime captain.
Jamie Benn opens up about his future in Dallas.
Sam Bernardi from The Sporting News writes that at 35, Benn began to show signs of wear from nearly two decades of playing a hard-hitting, physical style. During the postseason, he managed just 1 goal and 2 assists in 18 games and didn't resemble the dominant, bruising forward fans have grown accustomed to.
"Dallas needs Benn's toughness and battle-winning abilities to finally get over the hump. But, at what price?" -Bernardi
Here is what Dom Luszczszyn of The Athletic had to say...
«A short deal closer to $4 million should be fine for the veteran, but anything approaching $5 million would likely be too much.» -Luszczszyn
Benn has also been vocal about his desires to remain in Dallas, leaving little doubt about where he wants to finish his career.
«I don't see myself going anywhere else. This is all I know. Hopefully we can figure something out." -Benn
The Stars also have decisions to ake on unrestricted free agents like forwards Matt Duchene, Mikael Granlund, and Mavrik Bourque, as well as possibly defenseman Cody Ceci. While each of those players contributes in key roles, none offer the leadership presence that Benn brings to the team.
"General Manager Jim Nill also has to think about Jason Robertson and Thomas Harley, both of whom are restricted free agents after the 2025-26 season. They are far younger, more talented, and more important to the franchise's future success than Benn, but will also require major financial commitments." -Bernardi
Benn may no longer be at the peak of his career, but it's tough to imagine Dallas making a serious push without their captain in the lineup.
A hometown discount seems likely, and a deal in the range of three years and $13 million could be a fair compromise for both parties.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 19 | 32 ANSWERS Avalanche divisional rival drops emotional truth bomb about his future with the Stars Do you think Benn has played his last game with the Stars? | ||
| yes | 23 | 71.9 % |
| no | 9 | 28.1 % |
| List of polls | ||
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