The Texas Stars are gearing up for the 2026‑27 campaign, a season that promises both promise and uncertainty as the AHL affiliate of the Dallas Stars looks to build on a surprisingly strong finish.
In the 2025‑26 year the club posted a 37‑29‑4‑2 record, securing third place in the Central Division, yet underlying metrics painted a different picture: the offense averaged 3.08 goals per game while the defense surrendered 3.16, suggesting the team had ridden a wave of over‑achievement.
Veteran leadership and a new coaching voice
Veterans such as forward Cameron Hughes, who tallied 68 points and ranked third in the AHL, and 33‑year‑old Mike Sgarbossa, returning from a season abroad, are expected to anchor the offense and provide a steadying presence.
First‑year head coach Toby Peterson, who took over from Neil Graham, has already begun to imprint his system, guiding the Stars to a playoff berth by the latter half of the previous season and now aims to cement that momentum.
Between the pipes, 25‑year‑old Remi Poirier returns after a breakout year, positioning himself as the likely successor to NHL starter Jake Oettinger, while free‑agent signings Kyle Burroughs on defense and Brandon Halverson in goal add depth and experience.
Prospects and the road ahead
The organization is betting on a blend of seasoned talent and emerging prospects, including Finnish winger Emil Hemming, who hopes to earn an NHL spot, and defensemen Tristan Bertucci and Trey Taylor, who still require development time.
The strategy hinges on using the veterans as mentors while the younger players acclimate, a plan that could sustain success if the depth and readiness meet expectations.
General manager Kole Lind’s potential return and the continued influence of Sgarbossa’s leadership are among the storylines that fans will watch closely as the new season unfolds.