38-year-old forward signs with Dallas Stars and will begin his 20th NHL season
Photo credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
The Dallas Stars have added a veteran winger with a Stanley Cup ring. David Perron has signed with Dallas, ending a search that stretched deep into the fall for the 38-year-old free agent.
Perron entered October without a team after his two-year, $8 million contract expired at the end of last season.
His agent, Allan Walsh, said earlier this month that Perron wanted the right fit for his family and fully intended to play this season. Dallas now gives him that chance.
What Perron Brings to Dallas
The Sherbrooke, Quebec native has built a long résumé since the St. Louis Blues drafted him 26th overall in 2007.
He has 332 goals and 812 points in 1,239 NHL games across stops with the Blues, Oilers, Penguins, Ducks, Golden Knights, Red Wings and Senators. He also lifted the Stanley Cup with St. Louis in 2019.
Perron is a creative playmaker who is comfortable in traffic and never shies away from physical play. Few forwards of his age bring his mix of skill, edge and playoff experience, which makes him a natural fit for a contender looking to deepen its forward group.
His production has dipped in recent seasons. He finished last year with 13 goals and 28 points in 65 games split between Ottawa and Detroit, and injuries played a part in that decline. Still, he has topped 40 points 13 times in his career, including 47 in 2023-24.
Why the Fit Makes Sense
Veteran depth matters in a long season, and a winger who has been through deep playoff runs can steady a lineup when games get tight.
Perron should slot into the middle six, where his passing and puck protection can help drive secondary scoring.
For Perron, the move offers a fresh start with a team that expects to compete. For the Stars, it is a low-risk addition with real upside.
How he fits on the lines will be the next storyline to watch as he joins the team.
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