Dallas Stars Ready to Insert an MVP Into Their Lineup This Season

A Dallas Stars' former first-round pick has more than proven himself in the American Hockey League, and was even named MVP of the circuit this season. Now, Stars GM Jim Nill has agreed that it's time for Mavrik Bourque to shine in the NHL, as he related to nhl.com's Tracey Myers.

It’s (his) turn now. We saw Mavrik come in in the playoffs and play for us. It’s his turn... Some of these young kids, it's their turn to start grabbing it. Some of it, their play has dictated it. They've deserved it. Mavrik is an MVP in the American Hockey League, first All-Star team, there's not much more he can do (there). He's ready for the NHL.

Indeed, Bourque had himself a great year with the Texas Stars in the AHL. With a deadly wrist shot and keen ice vision, Bourque recorded 26 goals and 51 assists for 77 points in 71 games this season. He added 11 points in seven playoff games as well.

Bourque—no relation to former NHL great Ray Bourque—got into just one regular season and one playoff game for the Stars, but from the sounds of it, according to the GM, that is about to change for the Stars' 2020 first-rouder.

He'll be joining another Texas Stars' graduate in Dallas, 2021 second-rounder Logan Stankoven, who, despite his 5'8" stature, played a big role in 24 games in his first taste of the NHL, recording 14 points in 14:40 of ice time a night.

The Stars need to replace longtime star forward Joe Pavelski, who took his 27 goals and 67 points and skated off into retirement this summer.