Dallas' 2025-26 blue line looks ready to carry the team, anchored by Heiskanen, Harley and Lindell. Lundkvist seeks a breakout after shoulder surgery, while Bichsel, Lyubushkin, Petrovic and Kolyachonok push for regular roles. Depth is younger and less proven, and the Stars must manage health and a new coaching staff to maximize fantasy upside.

Health of the top pair and the balance between 5v5 and power play will define fantasy upside all season. If Harley continues ascending and Lundkvist locks a top-four role, Dallas could unleash a potent blueline for fantasy rosters, with the youngsters gaining meaningful minutes as the year progresses.

Gulutzan reloads Dallas with youth and energy, naming Bourque and Lundkvist as the camp targets while acknowledging gaps left by Granlund and Ceci. Bourque aims for top-six and more offense; Lundkvist looks to cement a trusted role after a bumpy finish under DeBoer. Benn remains a steadying veteran as Duchene and Johnston could supply breakout bursts. Internal growth is the theme, with camp as the proving ground for the Stars’ next wave.

A refined NHL defense breakout model now targets blueliners likely to deliver true fantasy impact beyond sporadic scoring, focusing on age, experience, and a first sustained FPPG above a historical median. It flags defenders entering a true breakout window (roughly 23–27 years old, 170–380 games) who can push into top unit minutes and PP time, while accumulating hits and blocks that translate to fantasy points.

Among the names highlighted: Bowen Byram, Jamie Drysdale, Dylan Samberg, and K’Andre Miller, plus others who could unlock a real late-round upside if opportunity aligns. The framework aims to separate true contributors from depth players, guiding drafts with data-backed confidence.

Nils Lundkvist has recently tied the knot, joining fellow Dallas Stars defenseman Miro Heiskanen in celebrating personal milestones. Lundkvist married Malin Norén in Sweden, a notable event highlighted on social media channels.

At just 25 years old, Lundkvist is back with the Stars after signing a one-year extension worth $1.25 million. His previous season saw him sidetracked by a shoulder injury that required surgery, but he was cleared for contact during the playoffs, though he couldn't return in time to impact the team's run. With a full recovery, he is poised to fulfill the potential that general manager Jim Nill recognized when he was acquired for two draft picks in 2022.

The Dallas Stars are making strategic moves by re-signing forward Mavrik Bourque and defenseman Nils Lundkvist to one-year contracts. Bourque, who played 73 regular-season games last season and recorded 25 points, notably saw limited playoff action, dressing for just three games as the Stars faced another early exit. Lundkvist's contract, valued at $1.25 million, reflects his potential after being traded from the New York Rangers but has struggled with injuries and inconsistent performance.

As the Stars continue to seek playoff success after three consecutive losses in the Western Conference final, these signings indicate a focus on developing younger talent while maintaining a competitive roster. Both players will be crucial in shaping the team's future as they attempt to overcome recent disappointments.