Five things to know about Nathan Bastian, the Dallas Stars' newest physical presence

The Dallas Stars have a new forward joining their lineup, and while Nathan Bastian may not be a household name yet in Texas, his mix of size, grit, and personality could quickly make him a fan favourite.

Bastian, 27, signed a one-year deal with Dallas worth $775,000, bringing a physical edge to the Stars' forward group.

General manager Jim Nill made it clear that this signing wasn't just about adding another body, it was about shaping the team's identity.

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

Five things Stars fans should know about Nathan Bastian

1. The basics: A right-shot winger from Kitchener, Ontario, Bastian was drafted 41st overall by the New Jersey Devils in 2016. He stands 6-foot-4, weighs over 200 pounds, and plays a heavy style built for the bottom six.

2. Depth piece: This offseason, Dallas brought back Radek Faksa and added Bastian to ensure forward depth going into training camp.

3. Physical edge: Head coach Glen Gulutzan is pushing for more grit next season, and Bastian fits that bill perfectly with his forechecking and board play.

4. Debut fight: In his NHL debut with the Devils in 2019, Bastian dropped the gloves against Anaheim's Josh Manson, immediately showing he wasn't shy about physical play.

5. Memorable celebration: In February 2024, he scored twice at MetLife Stadium and capped it off with a classic Italian hand gesture, a nod to New Jersey's culture and NFL quarterback Tommy DeVito.

Personally, I think Bastian's mix of toughness and personality will win over Dallas fans quickly, especially once the games get physical.