The Dallas Stars are finalizing a major contract extension with star defenseman Thomas Harley, according to multiple reports. According to Pierre LeBrunThe deal is expected to last eight years with an average annual value of $10.587 million, which will compensate Harley well but lock him in for multiple seasons.
ESPN’s Emily Kaplan writes”This buys three RFA years. Believe there’s a full no-movement clause if he’s over 1-3 years old. Big picture: Harley believes he can win in Dallas, he wanted to stay.”
Harley, 24, has been a key contributor to Dallas’ blue line over the past three seasons. Since becoming a full-time NHL player in 2023-24, he has scored 32 goals and 105 points in 166 regular season games, totaling four goals and 18 points in 37 playoff games. His +57 rating, strong possession stats and high on-ice save percentage highlight his two-way impact.
Last season, Harley scored 16 goals and 34 assists in 78 games and added four goals and 10 assists in 18 playoff games. This season he already has eight points after nine games. He also represented Canada at the 4 Nations Face-Off, providing an assist in the 3-2 win over the United States.
While the $10.5875 million cap space increases the Stars’ salary flexibility, retaining Harley alongside other core players like Esa Lindell and Miro Heiskanen will keep Dallas competitive on their blueline for years to come. General Manager Jim Nill paid full price but landed one of the league’s rising defensive stars.
With the salary cap rising, many analysts are suggesting this deal goes from an already reasonable contract to a very good one for the Stars.
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