Cody Ceci could be on the move this summer as the Dallas Stars head into the offseason with cap constraints and a long list of decisions to make.
The veteran defenseman, who played all 18 playoff games this year, is a pending unrestricted free agent. With just around $5 million in projected cap space and a stacked blue line already under contract, the Stars may be unable to retain him.
Cody Ceci Could Be a Free Agent Fit for Defense-Needy Teams
Given Dallas’ uncertain future after parting ways with Pete DeBoer after their Western Conference final loss, multiple teams could be monitoring Ceci’s situation, with the Buffalo Sabres and Detroit Red Wings emerging as potential landing spots, according to Michael DeRosa of NHL Trade Rumors. If Ceci hits the open market on July 1, these two Eastern Conference teams may be among the first to make an offer.
The Sabres are expected to aggressively pursue a right-shot defenseman to pair with 2021 first-overall pick Owen Power. Power, who regressed this past season, finished with a minus-13 rating and his lowest average ice time. Hall of Famer Chris Pronger, speaking with The Athletic, noted Power lacks a stable partner who can “bail him out” defensively, a role Ceci may be well-suited for.
The Sabres’ interest in Ceci is partly rooted in affordability. While not a star, Ceci is a reliable second-pair option and could be signed for under $4 million. The Sabres have missed the playoffs for 14 straight seasons and are under pressure to build a more balanced defense. According to The Buffalo News’ Lance Lysowski, Ceci is one of four right-shot UFAs the team should potentially consider.
Another franchise needing depth on the right side of its defense: the Red Wings. The team could benefit from Ceci’s experience and steady play, particularly in penalty-killing situations. His addition would offer another veteran presence alongside their younger core and round out their top-four defensive unit.
Something to keep in mind… while the Stars mainly added Cody Ceci for his defense, he can bring a bit of offense as well. Casey DeSmith said the same thing yesterday after practice.
Ceci has 4 goals and 15 points, which ranks 4th among Stars D, two points behind Lindell.
— Sam Nestler (@samnestler) February 2, 2025
The Columbus Blue Jackets could also enter the mix depending on how they handle their free agents. With Ivan Provorov and Dante Fabbro both unsigned, Ceci may be a fallback option to add experience and help mentor their young blueliners.
After another deep playoff run that ended in the Western Conference final, the Stars find themselves in a financial pinch. Alongside Ceci, the team must also address the futures of Jamie Benn, Matt Duchene, and Mikael Granlund. With only five of their top six defensemen under contract, Ceci may be considered expendable, especially if he seeks a raise from his current $3.25 million salary.
The Stars are not expected to make a large offer to retain him, as their priority may be re-signing restricted free agent Mavrik Bourque and managing extensions for key pieces like Mikko Rantanen and Wyatt Johnston.
Unless the Stars clear additional cap space or Ceci is willing to accept a discount, he appears poised to test the market, where teams like the Sabres and the Red Wings may be waiting.
