STARS TRADE: Dallas Adds Defenseman Nils Lundkvist for Picks from Rangers

The Stars obtained some blue line depth today, adding defenseman Nils Lundkvist from the New York Rangers in exchange for a 2023 first-round pick (if the 2023 pick is in the top 10, it becomes an unprotected 2024 first-round pick) and a 2025 conditional fourth-round pick (If Lundkvist totals more than 55 points over the next two seasons, the 2024 fourth-round pick becomes a third-round pick). 

Lundkvist, (22), is a right-handed defenseman with very little NHL experience. In 25 games, he recorded one goal and four points, adding 15 points in 34 games at the AHL level. Despite his high upside, he struggled to find a spot within a deep Rangers blue line and requested a trade when a new contract seemed unlikely. New York had been actively searching for the proper return and destination for the Swedish defenseman until finally landing on Dallas. 

“Nils is a skilled, right-handed shot defenseman that adjusted to the North American game this past season and has a high ceiling,” said Stars General Manager Jim Nill. “We felt that adding a creative player like Nils to our defensive group was necessary, and he has a tremendous opportunity to establish himself as an everyday impact defenseman at the NHL level.”

For Dallas, the move gives them a much-needed right-handed defenseman, a puck mover, and a young guy who could potentially play up into the top-four. Lundkvist likes to join the rush and should be a good fit for a Stars team searching for more offense.