With the Dallas Stars cap strapped this season and the strength of their farm system in Texas, opportunities may be available for AHL players who are looking to make the jump to the NHL in 2025-26.
Arttu Hyry
Jan 2, 2025; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Stars right wing Arttu Hyry (12) skates against the Ottawa Senators during the second period at the American Airlines Center. Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn ImagesSigned as a free agent ahead of last season, Arttu Hyry made a smooth transition to North American hockey posting 49 points (24+25) through 67 games with the Texas Stars, playing both center and right wing.
Hyry is a physical, defensive forward who should be able to play penalty kill. He was listed as the Stars' fourth best right wing option in the 2025-26 Yearbook.
Justin Hryckowian
Speaking of undrafted free agents, NCAA free agent Justin Hryckowian could also jump into the lineup after showcasing a deadly combo of smarts and skill in the AHL last season. Hryckowian netted 68 points (22+38).
Should the Stars need depth scoring, Hryckowian could fill that void in a pinch. He's sitting as the Stars 5LW.
Lian Bichsel
Former 2022 first round pick Lian Bichsel really cemented himself as a main piece of the Dallas Stars roster last season, being given an opportunity and running with it, scoring nine points (4+5) over 38 games since his AHL call up.
The 6-foot-7 blueliner is ranked as the team's sixth best defenseman, and likely has the runway to really develop into a definitive shutdown blueliner as the 2025-26 progresses.
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