Stars Re-Sign Jamie Benn to a 1-Year Deal – The Hockey Writers – Dallas Stars

Benn Back in Dallas

Benn returns for an 18th season with the Stars. A fifth-round pick in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, he has played in 1,252 games with the Stars, scoring 414 goals and recording 992 points. He won the Art Ross Trophy during the 2014-15 season, leading the league with 87 points.

In 60 games with the Stars last season, Benn scored 15 goals in 60 games. He did not record a point in six playoff games. The Stars were eliminated in the first round, ending their streak of three straight appearances in the Western Conference Final.

Benn’s Role

At 36, Benn may be slowing down, but he is still a productive player. He is just one season separated from a 49-point season. He primarily played on the Stars’ middle lines and one of the power-play units.

We can expect Benn to play a similar role in 2026-27. He may not be a top-line forward anymore, but he is still a threat in the offensive zone.

Leadership and Playoff Experience

Benn has accumulated a resume of leadership and playoff experience. He was named captain of the Stars prior to the 2013-14 season. He led the Stars through some of their best seasons and playoff runs.

Benn will look to lead the Stars over the hump in the playoffs. Despite being frequent playoff participants, the team has failed to win the big game. The Stars’ best run came in 2020, when they reached the Stanley Cup Final in the unique COVID-19 format. Benn scored eight goals in 27 games during the run. The Stars ultimately lost to the Tampa Bay Lightning in six games. They came up two wins short, something Benn acknowledged while also praising his team.

The Stars are expected to enter the new season as Stanley Cup contenders. Could this be the year Benn brings the Cup back to Texas?