The Dallas Stars Sign Another Defenseman

The Dallas Stars have signed Jani Hakanpaa to a three-year, $4.5 million contract. It will carry a $1.5 million cap hit.

Hawk, yeah! Welcome to #TexasHockey, Jani Hakanpaa. 🌟

We have signed Jani Hakanpaa to a 3-year contract through the 2023-24 season.

📝 https://t.co/7V6CTbRqFi pic.twitter.com/WRFzhq9zYL
— Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) July 29, 2021

Hakanpaa was a real surprise this season, as he finally cemented himself as a true NHLer. As as 29-year-old, this was his first full season in the league. That fact alone warrants so much respect, as not many people his age are able to make that jump. In 2019-20, he also suited up for five games with the Ducks.

In 57 games between the Anaheim Ducks and Carolina Hurricanes this season, he had two goals and four points. However, he is mostly known for being a defensive defenseman who often throws the body around. At 6'5" 220 pounds, he certainly adds another imposing figure to the Stars' blueline. He also will likely be utilized on their penalty kill because of his overalldependability.

This a quality depth signing for the Stars and did not cost them much at all in the process.