The Dallas Stars are rolling at exactly the right time. Winners of eight straight games, Dallas has surged into second place in the Central Division and looks every bit like a legitimate contender in the Western Conference.
With that momentum, the front office has been exploring ways to further strengthen the roster. However, it now appears the Stars have backed off after briefly considering a trade for a former Oilers bruiser.
Dallas Stars Pass on Former Edmonton Oilers Enforcer
The player in question is Evander Kane, now with the Vancouver Canucks after being acquired from the Edmonton Oilers in the offseason.
Kane is in the final year of his four-year, $20.5 million contract. And is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. His deal carries a modified no-trade clause.
Vancouver had hoped Kane’s blend of physical edge and scoring ability would provide balance and stability to its lineup. That hasn’t quite played out. Through 58 games, he has recorded 26 points, posted a minus-20 rating, and averaged just under 17 minutes of ice time per night.
RELATED: Maple Leafs Trade Rumors: Oilers Target Makes Feelings Crystal Clear With Trade Deadline Looming
Still, even amid an underwhelming season, Kane brings attributes that can intrigue contenders. As NHL insider Darren Dreger acknowledged, saying, “In a way it makes sense to me is, an expiring contract, we could see why team should have interest in Evander Kane. You can slot him in your bottom six, the man can still skate, he is aggressive, he can give you secondary scoring, all of that.”
However, when it comes to Dallas specifically, Dreger suggested the temperature has cooled. “I don’t think Dallas is as high on Evander Kane as what is being projected. I put myself in that category, because I do think until recently the Dallas Stars felt like he could be a decent add for them. I feel like they’ve cooled off in the last couple of days.”
In other words, the Stars did their due diligence. And then stepped back.
Dreger also mentioned that people around Kane felt a deal might have gone down last week. Also, teams like the Colorado Avalanche, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Carolina Hurricanes reportedly showed interest.
For Dallas, though, it appears the focus has shifted elsewhere. The Stars are playing some of their best hockey of the season. And management may be hesitant to disrupt chemistry unless the upgrade is clear and significant.
ALSO READ: Dallas Stars Listed Among Legitimate Contenders for $32,000,000 Star
Dallas is back in action Monday against the Vancouver Canucks, a game that suddenly feels a bit more interesting given the recent trade buzz.
