Dallas Stars Sign Defenseman Kyle Burroughs to One-Year Deal

Dallas Stars announced the signing of defenseman Kyle Burroughs to a one‑year, two‑way contract on July 6, 2026, giving the club a rugged blueliner to reinforce a roster that currently sits 2nd in the Western Conference with a 50‑20 record and a five‑game winning streak.

Who is Kyle Burroughs and what does he bring?

Burroughs, 30, spent the 2025‑26 season with the AHL’s Ontario Reign, the Los Angeles Kings’ affiliate, where he posted a career‑high 0.39 points per game, tallying seven points in 18 games. The six‑foot, 193‑pound defenseman is known for his hard‑hitting style; he has logged 572 hits and 293 blocked shots across 201 NHL games. His physicality aligns with General Manager Jim Nill’s comment that Burroughs can add a “physical element” to the Stars’ defensive core.

Why the Stars needed a depth defenseman now

Dallas entered the offseason with a solid defensive corps but limited size on the third pairing. Injuries to key blueliners last season exposed a need for a player who can clear the crease and win battles along the boards. Burroughs’ AHL production and his NHL experience with Colorado, Vancouver, San Jose and Los Angeles give him the versatility to slot into the top‑six or serve as a reliable call‑up for the Texas Stars, the club’s AHL affiliate.

How Burroughs fits into Dallas’s system

Head coach Pete DeBoer runs a fast‑paced, possession‑driven system that rewards defensemen who can transition quickly. Burroughs’ 233 hits in the 2023‑24 season tied for 16th league‑wide, showing he can deliver the physical pressure DeBoer likes. While not a high‑scoring defenseman—he recorded eight points with the Sharks in 2023‑24—his ability to block shots and win puck battles should help the Stars maintain their strong defensive metrics as they chase a deeper playoff run.

What’s next for the Stars after the signing?

The contract gives Dallas flexibility; Burroughs can be shuttled between the NHL and AHL without waivers, allowing DeBoer to adjust the lineup based on performance and injuries. The Stars’ next game is scheduled against the St. Louis Blues on September 19, 2026, a test that will showcase how quickly Burroughs integrates with the defensive unit. If he can translate his AHL success to the NHL level, Dallas could see an immediate boost in its already formidable defensive depth.

How fans can expect to see Burroughs on the ice

Watch for Burroughs on the third defensive pairing, especially in situations that demand a physical presence, such as penalty kills and late‑period defensive stands. His heavy‑hit style should energize the crowd and give the Stars a gritty edge in tight games. With the team riding a five‑game winning streak, his addition could be the extra push needed to sustain momentum through the grueling regular season.