This overlooked stat reveals Colin Blackwell's true value

The Dallas Stars may not have expected much more than depth when they brought in Colin Blackwell on a one-year deal, but his mix of speed, grit, and smart defensive play turned him into one of last season's most reliable bottom-six forwards, and now he might be on track for an even bigger role.

At 32 years old, Blackwell has been through nearly everything the NHL can throw at a player. Eight teams in nine seasons show just how tough it has been to find consistency, but in Dallas he carved out a steady role that quickly earned him trust.

Blackwell's speed, chemistry, and penalty kill role could earn him more minutes in Dallas

At 5-foot-8 and 190 pounds, Blackwell isn't the biggest player on the roster, but he makes his presence felt every shift. His ability to win puck battles and throw his body around makes him play far bigger than his frame suggests.

His speed also stands out. When paired with Sam Steel, the duo found a way to drive possession, keep pucks in the offensive zone, and wear down opponents with relentless effort. Their chemistry wasn't flashy, but it was effective.

On special teams, Blackwell's value was undeniable. He averaged nearly two minutes per game on the penalty kill, second among Stars forwards, and played a big role in keeping Dallas' shorthanded units steady throughout the year.

His instincts, active stick, and nonstop motor made him a dependable piece in those high-pressure situations.

With Evgenii Dadonov and Mikael Granlund departing in the offseason, opportunities are opening in the bottom six.

That could leave the door wide open for Blackwell to grab more minutes, whether on the fourth line or as a flexible option higher in the lineup.

I think it's easy to overlook players like Blackwell when talking about the Stars' stars and prospects, but last season proved his impact in tough situations.

If he continues on this path, Dallas may have found a steady veteran presence who can deliver well beyond expectations.