Dallas Stars: Five Things To Watch For In Rest Of 2017 Offseason
By Josh Clark
2. Will R.J. Umberger Make The Team?
Perhaps the most interesting and unexpected “acquisition” made by the Dallas Stars this offseason was the invitation extended to R.J. Umberger to attend training camp.
This may not be the most exciting move, but it gives the Stars a special look at potentially bringing a veteran to the team.
More From Blackout Dallas: Stars Invite R.J. Umberger To Training Camp
R.J. Umberger hasn’t played NHL hockey since April 2016. Shortly after the end of the 2015-16 season, the Philadelphia Flyers bought out the final year of his contract.
He’s 35 years old and is approaching the end of his career, but has a chance to break back into the league. At the height of his career, he was an offensive weapon, tallying 50-55 points a season while skating 18-19 minutes a game. He has a solid history with coach Ken Hitchcock, and that relationship is the primary reason why Umberger is trying out with Dallas.
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Umberger’s professional tryout contract lasts for the entirety of training camp, and a decision on his future will be made after. If he impresses the coaching staff, the Stars will have to sign him to a contract, which could be difficult considering their current cap crunch.
There is a chance that he could be put in the Dallas Stars’ system, playing the role of a veteran leader on the Texas Stars in the AHL. Another possible result would be another team in the league seeing his progress in training camp and signing him to fill a need of their own.
The Stars don’t necessarily have any open gaps on their offensive roster, but competition is always a good thing, and forwards will now have to give their all in order to earn their spot on the team. It’s always nice to have 100 percent.