Ranking: Top 5 Dallas Stars prospects heading into 2025-26

The Dallas Stars' prospect pool may not be the deepest in the NHL, but it still features several players worth watching closely. Khalid Keshavjee at Rinksiders recently ranked the organization's top 10 prospects, and here's a look at the top five from that list. (Full article here)

The top 5 Dallas Stars prospects to watch

5. Emil Hemming

The 2024 first-round pick has shown flashes but hasn't delivered the scoring impact expected. After solid but unspectacular production in Finland and the OHL, this season could be make-or-break for the winger. The skill and shot are there, but he needs to prove he can produce consistently at a high level.

4. Justin Hryckowian

An undrafted forward who impressed last year in the AHL with 60 points in 67 games, Hryckowian also picked up his first NHL point in a brief call-up. Known more for his defensive game, his offensive breakout was a pleasant surprise. He looks like a future middle-six option for Dallas.

3. Cameron Schmidt

At just 5'8", Schmidt is a dynamic winger with speed and hockey IQ. He racked up 78 points for the Vancouver Giants last season and was taken in the third round by Dallas. The big question is whether his size will limit him at the NHL level, but the upside is clear.

2. Ayrton Martino

A third-round pick in 2021, Martino had 51 points at Clarkson University and was a Hobey Baker finalist. His strength on the puck and playmaking have drawn comparisons to Mikko Rantanen. If he adapts quickly to the AHL, he could make an NHL impact as soon as this year.

1. Lian Bichsel

At the top is 6'7" defenseman Lian Bichsel. Already looking comfortable in NHL games, he projects as a long-term top-four defender and possibly even a top-pairing piece. His name has surfaced in trade rumors, but the expectation is that he'll be a full-time NHLer for Dallas this season.