Dallas Stars
· 2026-06-23
Dallas Stars have hit the jackpot in recent NHL drafts, with Wyatt Johnston being a prime example, potentially going first overall if the 2021 draft were to be redone today.
The Stars initially traded back in the first round, but still managed to get Johnston at 23rd overall, a steal considering his potential.
The 2017 draft was also a huge success, with the team taking Miro Heiskanen third overall, Jake Oettinger 26th, and Jason Robertson 39th.
These draft successes have contributed to the team having the third most playoff wins in the league since GM Jim Nill came on board in 2013.
Nill's history as a scout has been instrumental in the team's draft success, and he gives credit to Joe McDonnell, who runs the draft.
The team is hoping for even better years ahead, with a strong foundation of homegrown players, including Heiskanen, Johnston, Robertson, and Oettinger.
The Stars were able to acquire Mikko Rantanen because they had Logan Stankoven, and they hope to manage a tight cap with players like Mavrik Bourque and Lian Bichsel.
Drafting is a fickle thing, but the Stars have found a formula that works, with a great group of scouts who put in the work every day.
The key to their success is teamwork, with McDonnell saying it's about showing up every day and dealing with the travel and weather.
The Stars have a homegrown roster, with draft picks like Heiskanen, Johnston, Robertson, Oettinger, Bourque, and Bichsel contributing to the team's success.
As the team looks to the future, they have a strong foundation to build on, with a mix of experienced players and young talent.
The draft is a huge part of everything the Stars do, and they are focused on acquiring players and building a strong personnel base.
With Nill and McDonnell at the helm, the Stars are well-positioned for success in the years to come.
The team's draft success has been a key factor in their playoff wins, and they will look to continue that trend in the future.