Dallas Stars acquire a veteran forward: Jim Nill's choice is under fire

The Dallas Stars made headlines when they brought back forward Radek Faksa, but not everyone is convinced it was the right move.

On the latest episode of the Dallas Stars podcast, reporter Matthew DeFranks shared his honest reaction to the signing, and his comments have already stirred some debate among fans.

DeFranks admitted he did not expect general manager Jim Nill to commit to Faksa again, especially given the roster construction.

Matthew DeFranks thinks the Dallas Stars already had enough centers in their bottom six

"I was a little surprised by the Radek Faksa signing, especially when you look at all the centers the Stars already had in the bottom six. They had so many younger guys, way cheaper, doing the same job. So I don't think it was a necessary move from Jim Nill. The Stars thought he lost a step when they let him go the first time, and fast forward a few years later, he clearly did not get faster."

Here is the full clip: https://x.com/DLLS_Stars/status/1957 593355132760490

Those words reflect a concern some fans share: that Faksa's style of play may not add much new compared to the younger depth forwards already pushing for NHL jobs.

Still, DeFranks did note that Faksa has value. He pointed out that in the right role, the veteran can be a stabilizing presence.

"He will bring a nice presence in the playoffs," DeFranks said, acknowledging that Faksa's experience could help in high-pressure moments.

The return of Faksa highlights an ongoing question for the Dallas Stars: should the bottom six be filled with cost-efficient prospects or steady veterans with more playoff mileage? Nill has leaned toward balance, but not everyone agrees with the mix.

From my point of view, I think the Stars may have played it safe instead of giving a longer look to one of the cheaper young centers. But at the same time, I can understand why the team values Faksa's defensive reliability.