A decision has been made on Ilya Lyubushkin as the Stars shape their roster

The Dallas Stars, Elliotte Friedman's report, and a tight salary cap picture have combined to clarify one thing: despite trade rumours, Dallas isn't planning to move defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin this summer, even as the team faces long-term roster challenges.

In a recent breakdown, Friedman noted that Dallas remains committed to keeping Lyubushkin, stating the veteran was viewed as a stabilizing presence for their blue line and not a trade candidate.

His full comments were covered by House of Hockey in their analysis of Dallas' offseason moves, which you can read at
House of Hockey.

Lyubushkin, 31, logged around 17 minutes per night last season as a third-pairing option. With Matt Dumba and Cody Ceci now gone, Dallas could ask him to step into a larger role on the right side unless Nils Lundkvist or a younger defender takes a major leap.

That scenario could push Lyubushkin out of his ideal minutes, which some analysts warn might stretch his game.

Dallas Stars will rely on Ilya Lyubushkin for now, but future cap decisions could change his role

Lyubushkin carries a $3.25 million AAV for two more years, a manageable but noticeable number for a depth defenseman.

His steady style fits the Stars' structure for 2025-26, but long-term cap flexibility looms as a major factor.

With Jason Robertson due for a new deal, Mavrik Bourque and Thomas Harley needing raises, and Jamie Benn's future to sort out, Lyubushkin could still become a trade chip a year from now if Dallas needs to create space.

For context, Lyubushkin's regular-season production and time-on-ice numbers can be reviewed on NHL.com.

I think Dallas is wise to hold onto him for now, but if younger players step up, his contract might become the easiest to move next summer.