Dallas Stars Playoff Hero Signs with Anaheim Ducks

Mikael Granlund Signs with Anaheim Ducks

Granlund is a capable veteran player, and his efforts after being acquired by the Stars showed just how valuable a contributor he can be. After being traded, Granlund had 21 points in 31 regular-season games for Dallas. Although it took him a few games to put one in the net, his two-way game and ability to do the little things were evident from the start, and he seemed to have a hand in everything that went right for the Stars.

That’s the way he needs to be viewed across the league. He’s a two-way centre who can make many under-the-radar plays and do whatever is asked of him. He hasn’t been a prolific goal-scorer, and that’s not what you need from him. However, he can show up when needed. During Dallas’ playoff run, Granlund had 10 points in 18 games. That’s not going to jump off the page, but his Game 4 hat trick in the second round against the Winnipeg Jets was the only thing going for Dallas’ offence that night and gave the Stars a 3-1 series advantage.

What It Means

Granlund is a veteran centre who still has something left in the tank. He will provide a veteran presence to a young Ducks team that added Chris Kreider earlier in the off-season. After years of being on the outside looking in come playoff time, it’s clear that the Ducks are going for it this year. Granlund will help young centres Leo Carlsson and Mason McTavish in their development, as the Ducks look strong down the middle for years to come.