Why this former first-rounder might not make it in the NHL

There was a time when Tristan Bertucci looked like a future core piece for the Dallas Stars, a smooth-skating defenseman drafted in the first round with high hopes attached.

He had the mobility, the puck skills, and the hockey IQ scouts love to see in a modern blue-liner.

He played major minutes with the Flint Firebirds, and the expectation was that his game would evolve quickly enough to earn him an NHL contract.

But two years later, that hasn't happened yet, and now people are starting to ask tough questions.

Why the Dallas Stars may never offer Tristan Bertucci an NHL contract

Bertucci's development has hit a wall.

His 2024-25 season in Flint didn't bring the offensive breakout many hoped for, and his play under pressure remains a concern. Scouts once praised his calmness, but now say that calm often looks like indecision.

The Stars' pipeline has also become crowded. Lian Bichsel has stepped up in the AHL. Artem Grushnikov continues to climb. Christian Kyrou and Gavin White are pushing too.

Meanwhile, Bertucci still hasn't signed an entry-level deal. As NHL.com's prospect tracker recently confirmed, Dallas hasn't locked him in. One scout told The Hockey News:

"He's got tools, but the reads and reactions aren't NHL-level right now."

The Stars don't have to make a final decision yet. But it's clear Bertucci is no longer a top-tier priority in the organization.

He still moves well, has flashes of skill, and could surprise with a strong start next season. But unless things change soon, he may be remembered as a promising pick who just couldn't take the next step.

I really hope he finds a way to turn things around because I want to believe in his upside.