The Dallas Stars are once again in the thick of the Western Conference playoff race, but their formula for success has a familiar feel. With veteran stars like Jamie Benn, Joe Pavelski, and Tyler Seguin leading the charge, the question arises—are the Stars leaning too heavily on their aging core at the expense of developing younger talent?
The Backbone of Experience
There’s no denying the impact of veterans on the Stars’ success. Joe Pavelski, at 39, remains one of the NHL’s most reliable forwards, providing leadership and offensive production. Jamie Benn has found a second wind in his career, and Tyler Seguin continues to play a vital role despite battling injuries in recent seasons.
From a leadership standpoint, this veteran presence is invaluable. These players set the tone in the locker room and provide a level of stability for younger teammates. Pavelski, in particular, has mentored budding stars like Jason Robertson and Wyatt Johnston, helping them navigate the pressures of the NHL.
However, the question remains: Is this reliance sustainable?
The Youth Movement: Held Back or Supported?
Dallas has an impressive crop of young talent. Jason Robertson has already cemented himself as one of the league’s top wingers, while Wyatt Johnston continues to develop into a top-six forward. Defenseman Thomas Harley has shown promise, and Jake Oettinger has proven he can be a franchise goaltender.
Despite this young core, the Stars still prioritize their veteran group in key situations. Coach Pete DeBoer often leans on his experienced players in high-stakes moments, sometimes limiting the opportunities for younger players to take on bigger roles. While this strategy has its merits, it could slow down the development of the next generation.
Balancing the Present and Future
The Stars are currently built to win, and their mix of veteran leadership and young skill has proven effective. However, other teams that have leaned too long on an aging core—like the Chicago Blackhawks or Pittsburgh Penguins—have faced steep declines once their veterans slowed down.
If Dallas wants to avoid a similar fate, they must ensure their young stars are given ample opportunities to develop into franchise cornerstones.
Ultimately, the Stars’ reliance on veterans isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it’s a fine line to walk. If they can transition their younger players into larger roles while still utilizing their experienced core, they could set themselves up for long-term success.