The Dallas Stars have announced they signed Nathan Bastian to a one-year contract at the league minimum.
Bastian has been all six years of NHL career with the New Jersey Devils, minus a small stint with the Seattle Kraken due to the expansion draft. He was later put on waivers by the Kraken and picked back up by the Devils.
Bastian is a versatile power forward known for his size, physicality, and gritty style of play. Standing at 6'4" and over 200 pounds, Bastian brings a strong net-front presence and a relentless forechecking ability that makes him a handful for opposing defenders. While not a high-end scorer, he is capable of chipping in around the front of the net and along the boards. His ability to win puck battles, disrupt plays, and provide energy on the bottom-six lines adds depth and character to any lineup.
For the Stars, Bastian could be a valuable addition in multiple ways. His physical style complements a roster that already balances skill and structure, giving the Stars more sandpaper in tight-checking games and playoff-style hockey. Last season with the Devils, he averaged 12.8 hits per 60, which would have been second on last year's Stars roster, only behind Lian Bischel. He’s effective on the penalty kill, using his reach and positioning to clog passing lanes and apply pressure. His work ethic and willingness to play a team-first game make him a coach’s favorite in depth roles.
The 27-year-old seems to have filled the 13th forward role on the roster at quick glance, but anything could happen in training camp.
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