This young Dallas Stars talent just earned breakout player of the year recognition

He's flown under the radar in Dallas, but now one major publication has named Mavrik Bourque as their breakout pick for 2025-26, and the rest of the NHL might want to take notice.

In a recent article from The Hockey News, writer Justin Giampietro named Bourque as the Dallas Stars' breakout pick for the upcoming season.

"Leading the American Hockey League (AHL) in scoring two seasons ago as a 21-year-old, Mavrik Bourque should have decent offensive upside at the NHL level," Giampietro wrote in his article.

That same upside didn't fully translate on the stat sheet in 2024-25-Bourque posted 11 goals and 14 assists for 25 points in 72 games, but the signs of growth were clear.

He averaged just 12:41 of ice time per game last season, which means most of his production came in limited opportunities.

Why Mavrik Bourque's breakout might just be getting started with the Dallas Stars

Even with a loaded top six in Dallas that includes Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Mikko Rantanen, Bourque has carved out a role with his intelligence and puck retrieval.

He may never be a flashy highlight-reel guy, but his hockey IQ, vision, and effort away from the puck could turn him into a dependable middle-six forward for years to come.

"He has a skill set that should get him some better looks," Giampietro added, noting that Dallas could soon reward him with more minutes.

I think if Bourque takes even a small step forward this year, he could quickly become a staple on the Stars' second power-play unit or penalty kill.

The Hockey News also gave an honorable mention to Lian Bichsel, another name Stars fans should be excited about.

Dallas might already have their next core piece developing right under their nose.