Michael Sgarbossa, a 33‑year‑old forward from Campbellville, Ontario, has agreed to a one‑year deal with the Texas Stars of the American Hockey League for the 2026‑27 season, bringing his veteran presence back to North American ice.
A Fresh Start in Texas
After a productive spell in Switzerland, where he suited up for HC Lugano and SC Bern, Sgarbossa posted 18 points in 27 games with Lugano and added 13 points in 12 appearances for Bern, experiences that sharpened his offensive edge and reinforced his adaptability across styles of play.
The move to Texas follows a career that has spanned 93 NHL games across multiple franchises, including stints with the Colorado Avalanche, Anaheim Ducks, Florida Panthers and Winnipeg Jets, before a recent return to the Washington Capitals organization where he was called up to replace Evgeny Kuznetsov.
In the AHL, Sgarbossa has proven himself a consistent producer, most notably leading the Hershey Bears with 30 goals and 65 points during the 2018‑19 season, a performance that earned him a second All‑Star Classic selection.
Twice recognized in the AHL All‑Star Classic — first with Lake Erie and later with Hershey — Sgarbossa’s reputation as a reliable scorer and team leader continues to grow as he embarks on this new chapter with the Texas Stars.
The signing reflects the Stars’ intent to bolster their forward depth with a player who blends NHL experience, international exposure, and a proven track record of leadership, positioning him as a key contributor as the team looks to contend in the upcoming season.