Stars Sign Forward Sam Steel to $14.8M, 4-Year Extension
Published · Updated
Cited: ESPN, NHL.com, Pro Hockey Rumors
TL;DR
8 million contract extension through 2030-31, rewarding his career-best 33-point season and elite penalty-killing.
Why now
Steel was set to become an unrestricted free agent after the 2026-27 season, and the Stars moved early to lock in a key depth forward who has been a consistent contributor during their recent playoff runs.
Agree / conflict
7 million AAV for a 33-point forward, Steel's penalty-killing role and versatility in a contending lineup justify the investment for Dallas.
Takeaway
Steel's extension is a smart, low-risk move that secures a reliable two-way forward at a reasonable cap hit, giving the Stars flexibility to address other roster needs.
The Dallas Stars have signed forward Sam Steel to a four-year, $14.8 million contract extension that begins next season and runs through 2030-31. General manager Jim Nill praised Steel's consistency and versatility, particularly on the penalty kill, as key reasons for the deal. Steel set career highs last season with 12 goals, 21 assists, and 33 points in 73 games, and he leads Stars forwards in shorthanded ice time.
Steel, a first-round pick by Anaheim in 2016, has 175 points in 491 career NHL games across four teams. The extension gives him a slight raise from his previous $2.1 million AAV and represents the longest contract of his career. Dallas now has roughly $39 million in cap space for the 2027 offseason to negotiate extensions for other key players like Jason Robertson and Tyler Seguin.
FAQ
When does Sam Steel's new contract begin?
The four-year extension begins in the 2027-28 season and runs through 2030-31.
What is the average annual value of Steel's new deal?
The contract has an average annual value of $3.7 million.
What were Sam Steel's career highs last season?
In 2025-26, Steel set career highs with 12 goals, 21 assists, 33 points, five game-winning goals, and 79 hits.
How much cap space do the Stars have for the 2027 offseason?
Dallas has approximately $39 million in cap space to work with for the 2027 offseason.
Which other Stars players are due for contract extensions?
Key players with expiring contracts include Jason Robertson, Tyler Seguin, Joel Kiviranta, Tyler Myers, and Lian Bichsel.
Sources
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