Dallas Stars Sign Defenseman Roman Polak On One-Year Deal
The Dallas Stars made a rumor official a few minutes ago, signing defenseman Roman Polak. It’s a one-year deal that should benefit their defensive depth.
After locking down Valeri Nichushkin for the NHL lineup, the Dallas Stars made a blue line move. They announced the signing of defenseman Roman Polak a few minutes ago.
His contract is only for one year and carries an AAV of $1.3 million. That being said, this isn’t necessarily a big grab for GM Jim Nill, but instead a depth move.
At the age of 32, Polak is known for being a depth defender. With 688 NHL regular season games under his belt, he’s got 25 goals and 127 points. But Polak isn’t known for being an offensive force.
Instead, he’s more of a consistent presence on and behind the blue line. He can also play a strong game in front of the net and clear space when on defense.
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This past season, he skated in 54 games for the Maple Leafs, tallying two goals and 12 points along with a+5 rating. He did this in an average of 17:39 on the ice per game.
It was clear that Dallas fans questioned the signing at first. After all, why do they need another defender? The defense, as it stands right now, is young and impressively structured for their average age. The blue line is growing into a dominant unit with a solid shot at long-term success. Why sign a defensive defender that’s already past his prime?
Well, for depth purposes.
“Roman is a tested, veteran defenseman who brings a physical element to our back-end,” Nill said in the press release. “He is a respected competitor and will help round out our defensive group.”
At this point, it seems as though he will serve more as a veteran safety net. Considering it’s a one-year deal with a small salary, he’s not necessarily being signed to play a top starting role.
Instead, Polak will likely get into training camp and compete for a starting spot. But with John Klingberg, Stephen Johns, and Julius Honka on the right side, it might be tough to crack.
Dallas does need a seventh option on defense, though. That’s where Polak could likely file in. In addition, he could serve as a veteran leader and file into the lineup in certain scenarios considering his skills, depending on the opponent.
It may seem like an unnecessary deal, but this is a way for Dallas to solidify themselves with veteran help in case the young lineup falters.
Next: Stars Officially Lock In Val Nichushkin
We’ll have more coverage of the offseason as we continue on through this news-filled Sunday. The Dallas Stars keep making moves.