Dallas Stars insider sparks debate with prediction for Nathan Bastian's future

The Dallas Stars didn't sign Nathan Bastian expecting him to light up the scoresheet. They brought him in for something far more practical - grit, size, and reliable depth.

At 6-foot-4 and 27 years old, Bastian joins Dallas on a one-year, $775,000 contract after four seasons with the New Jersey Devils.

Across 276 NHL games, he's posted 33 goals and 68 points, but his value comes from the physical side of his game. Last year he delivered 138 hits, a total that would have ranked second on the Stars behind only rookie defenseman Lian Bichsel.

"Nathan will add forward depth and a physical presence to our lineup, both of which will be valuable to our organization,"

Where Nathan Bastian fits in the Dallas Stars' lineup this season

Bastian is expected to slot into a bottom-six role and contribute on the penalty kill. His arrival makes the competition for roster spots even tougher, especially for young forwards like Justin Hryckowian and Arttu Hyry.

With 13 NHL forwards now under contract, Dallas looks crowded heading into training camp.

His past year with New Jersey was uneven, he lost time with a broken jaw and found himself scratched after trade deadline acquisitions.

Even so, he suited up for all five of the Devils' playoff games and reminded reporters of his priorities:

"As long as I get to play in the playoff games, then that's the main thing."

There's even a quirky connection between Bastian and Miro Heiskanen: both players were on the receiving end of illegal hits from Rangers forward Matt Rempe that resulted in ejections.

I believe this is the kind of depth signing that matters over an 82-game grind. Bastian won't carry the offense, but his size, energy, and defensive game make Dallas harder to play against.

For more details on the move, see NHL.com.