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"Not Even Close": Why Mavrik Bourque Thinks His Best Hockey Is Still Coming

Originally posted on Blade of Steel | By Vince Hull | Last updated Sep 6, 2025 12:39 PM ET

Mavrik Bourque believes his best hockey is still ahead as the Dallas Stars look to finally break through in 2025-26.

The Dallas Stars have built a roster filled with young talent and proven veterans, but one name that keeps drawing attention heading into the 2025-26 season is Mavrik Bourque.

The 23-year-old forward is coming off his first full NHL season and yet, despite flashes of offensive brilliance, he is adamant that fans have only seen a fraction of what he can bring to the ice.

In a recent interview shared by Sam Nestler on social media, Bourque didn't hold back when asked about his game.

Mavrik Bourque believes his ceiling with the Dallas Stars is far higher than what he has shown

Bourque admitted he still feels like he has more to prove, saying:

"I never felt like I played my full potential not even close. I still feel like I have something to prove and feel like my ceiling is way higher than what I showed."

Those words echo the confidence of a player who has always been seen as one of Dallas's brightest prospects. Drafted in the first round back in 2020, Bourque dominated in the AHL with the Texas Stars before making the jump to Dallas. His hockey IQ, quick release, and playmaking ability have translated well, but he believes consistency is the next step.

The timing of his message is important. With Mason Marchment now in Seattle and the Stars needing more production from their depth forwards, Bourque could be the X-factor in filling that offensive gap.

Alongside teammates like Wyatt Johnston, Roope Hintz, and Jason Robertson, his growth could make Dallas's attack even more dangerous.

Personally, I think this kind of mindset is exactly what the Stars need. A player who refuses to be satisfied, even after reaching the NHL, usually finds a way to become a difference-maker.

The Stars have reached three straight Western Conference Finals, but the missing ingredient may be more contributions from players like Bourque. If he delivers on his own expectations, Dallas could finally break through to the Stanley Cup Final.

This article first appeared on Blade of Steel and was syndicated with permission.

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