The Dallas Stars have signed forward Justin Hryckowian to a two-year, one-way contract extension worth $1.9 million, securing the 24-year-old rookie through the 2027-28 season. Hryckowian, an undrafted free agent, has emerged as a key contributor in his first NHL season despite injuries to teammates. General Manager Jim Nill praised his versatility and value to the lineup.
Justin Hryckowian, a 24-year-old forward from L’Ile-Bizard, Quebec, joined the Dallas Stars as an undrafted free agent on March 20, 2024, after three seasons at Northeastern University, where he tallied 101 points (35 goals, 66 assists) in 94 games. In his final college year, he recorded 43 points (13 goals, 30 assists) in 32 games, earning a Hobey Baker Award nomination.
During the 2024-25 season with the Stars' AHL affiliate, the Texas Stars, Hryckowian excelled as the league's top rookie, earning the Dudley (Red) Garrett Memorial Award and a spot on the All-Rookie Team with 60 points (22 goals, 38 assists) in 67 games. He led all AHL rookies in assists and points, and dominated the playoffs with 18 points (9 goals, 9 assists) in 14 games, helping Texas reach the Western Conference Finals.
Hryckowian made the Stars' opening night roster for the 2025-26 season and has recorded 13 points (6 goals, 7 assists) in 42 games, on pace for 26 points. He ranks second among NHL rookies taking at least 50 faceoffs in win percentage at 56.0 percent (56-for-100) and ties for fifth in hits with 66, projecting to 127 for the season—the seventh-highest by a Stars rookie in franchise history.
Currently on a five-game point streak (3 goals, 2 assists), Hryckowian has lined up with veterans Matt Duchene and Jamie Benn, aiding chemistry amid injuries, including Tyler Seguin's season-ending absence. Coach Glen Gulutzan noted his growth: “He’s getting accustomed to the league and he’s getting better and better... most of that growth is in his puck play.”
The extension, announced January 7, 2026, in Frisco, Texas, has an average annual value of $950,000 and begins next season, preventing Hryckowian from restricted free agency on July 1. Nill said, “Justin has been a valuable asset to our team this year and has proven this season that he belongs in the NHL.” Hryckowian reflected, “I'm just trying to make my way... this is kind of just another part of the journey and just another step.”
