By Martin Iheke
It is official. The Dallas Stars signed forward Jason Spezza to a 4-year, $30 million contract extension. Spezza was in the final year of his 7-year, $49 million contract he signed with the Ottawa Senators. After growing frustration in the direction the Senators were heading, Spezza wanted to go to an organization that wants to win. The Stars traded for him and forward Ludwig Karlsson on July 1st in exchange for Alex Chiasson, Alex Guptill, Nick Paul and a second round pick in next year’s draft according to dallasnews.com.
“Jason is a world-class player and his commitment to the organization is a reflection of what we are building in Dallas,” Stars general manager Jim Nill said according to dallasnews.com. “The professionalism and production he brings to our group is key for our success moving forward and we value the leadership he brings to our team,” as he continued. So far this season, Spezza has 18 points in 20 games. Even though the Stars have struggled early in the season, it has not changed the fact that Spezza wants to be a Dallas Star. Spezza signing this deal means he believes this organization is heading in the right direction and wants to be a part of what could be a very successful era for the Dallas Stars.
I do not believe the Stars would have made this move if they did not strongly believe that Spezza would sign a contract extension with them. You do not trade for a player of his caliber only to let him walk in the offseason. He fills a hole at the second line center position although head coach Lindy Ruff has at times put him on the first line with Tyler Seguin and Jamie Benn. Regardless, he provides offensive depth and it is something the Stars will need. Now that this is behind him, hopefully he and the rest of team can focus on getting back on track and start winning games like they did last Thursday night at home against the Arizona Coyotes.
