Stars Secure Netminder Oettinger for the Long Term
As the puck drops on the 2024-25 NHL season, the Dallas Stars have made a decisive move to solidify their goaltending ranks by securing Jake Oettinger with an eight-year contract extension. The Stars, striving for consistency and excellence between the pipes, demonstrate their confidence in Oettinger with a deal valued at an impressive $66 million.
Oettinger, who turns 26 this December, is now set to remain with the Stars through the 2032-33 season. His new contract carries an average annual value (AAV) that surpasses many in the league, underscoring the high regard in which he is held by the Stars' management. Though the report lists an AAV of $82.5 million, this appears to be an error, as the overall deal is worth $66 million.
Oettinger’s Accomplishments and Consistency
Throughout his budding career, Oettinger has emerged as a reliable force for the Stars. Having played in 196 NHL games, Oettinger has continually improved his performance, amassing 30 wins, a solid 2.49 goals against average, and an outstanding .948 save percentage. These numbers speak volumes about his skill and potential as one of the league's premier goaltenders.
Oettinger’s prowess was particularly evident during the 2023-24 postseason. Over 19 appearances, he maintained a .913 save percentage, adding to his growing reputation as a clutch performer. His ability to save 4.1 goals above average in the postseason further highlights his critical role in the Stars’ defensive strategies.
League-Wide Goaltending Moves
The Stars are not the only team making significant goaltending commitments this season. The Boston Bruins have similarly secured their goaltender of the future, Jeremy Swayman, with an eight-year extension, indicating a rising trend among NHL teams to lock down their netminders for the long term. Meanwhile, the Ottawa Senators inked Linus Ullmark to a $32 million extension, and the Seattle Kraken signed Joey Daccord to a substantial $25 million, five-year contract.
Across the NHL, these moves reflect a growing awareness of the pivotal role that a strong, consistent goaltender plays in a team’s overall success. Clubs are more willing than ever to invest heavily in their goaltending positions as they vie for dominance in a fiercely competitive league.
Vancouver’s Strategic Extension
Beyond goaltending, teams are also making key decisions to retain promising talents in other positions. The Vancouver Canucks have chosen to extend Nils Hoglander’s contract for three years, a move that could provide stability and depth to their roster. Such strategic moves highlight the broader trend of teams looking to secure talented players long-term to build a cohesive and effective team dynamic.
For the Dallas Stars, the extended commitment to Oettinger represents not just a bet on his abilities but an investment in the team’s future aspirations. As they kick off the new season, all eyes will be on Oettinger and his potential to lead the Stars to new heights with his formidable presence in goal.