Dallas Stars miss out on physical monster but could be chasing this surprise replacement

The Dallas Stars are once again considered Stanley Cup contenders heading into 2025-26, but one thing has become clear: management wants more toughness in the lineup.

Despite their top-end talent with Jason Robertson, Jake Oettinger, and Miro Heiskanen, reports suggest Dallas has been exploring ways to add a more physical presence to balance its roster.

Insider Jeff Marek recently revealed that before Mathieu Olivier re-signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Stars had him circled as a target.

"Before Mathieu Olivier re-signed with the Blue Jackets, I'm firmly of the belief that was a target for the Stars. They wanted him or someone like him. I don't think that search is over."

Why the Dallas Stars are hunting for a hard-hitting forward

Olivier ultimately signed a six-year deal at $3 million annually, a price Dallas could not afford under its cap crunch. But the reason for their interest is obvious. At 28, Olivier has developed into more than a fourth-line grinder.

Last season he posted 18 goals, 32 points, and 306 hits, while also recording 139 penalty minutes and contributing on the penalty kill. That blend of grit and offense is a rare commodity in today's NHL.

As NHL Trade Rumors pointed out, Dallas is still on the lookout for players who can fill that void. Nathan Bastian provides some physicality, but he doesn't bring the same heavyweight edge that Olivier offers.

If the Vancouver Canucks fall out of contention, Kiefer Sherwood could emerge as a more attainable option, bringing a mix of energy, forechecking, and secondary scoring to the bottom six.

Even NHL.com has emphasized how depth remains key to Dallas's success. While their star power drives the headlines, having a physical forward who can chip in offensively might be the piece that pushes the team over the top.

Personally, I believe the Stars would benefit greatly from adding someone like Sherwood. They already have the skill, but that added edge could be what separates them in a grueling playoff series.