The Dallas Stars have made a significant move by signing their franchise goaltender, Jake Oettinger, to an eight-year, $66 million contract extension. This new deal will keep Oettinger with the Stars until the 2032-33 season, with an annual cap hit of $8.25 million. Additionally, Oettinger will receive $23 million in signing bonuses as part of the contract.
Oettinger, who is just 25 years old, has already established himself as a key player for the Stars. With an impressive record of 116-48-23 in 196 career games, Oettinger has proven himself to be a reliable and talented goaltender. He has played a crucial role in helping the Stars reach the playoffs for three consecutive seasons, and he has been instrumental in their success in the Western Conference final over the past two seasons.
Stars coach Peter DeBoer praised Oettinger, stating that he is a core piece of the team and has consistently performed well, especially in the playoffs. Oettinger’s numbers speak for themselves, with a .915 save percentage and a 2.46 goals-against average in 82 postseason games.
General manager Jim Nill also expressed his confidence in Oettinger, highlighting his young age and potential for growth. Nill emphasized that signing a goalie to an eight-year deal at Oettinger’s age is a unique situation that could benefit the team in the long run. Oettinger’s extension is part of a trend in the NHL, with several goalies signing significant contract extensions in recent weeks.
The contract extension for Oettinger follows similar deals for goalies like Jeremy Swayman, Linus Ullmark, and Joey Daccord. These contracts have set a precedent for goalie extensions in the league, with Oettinger joining the ranks of top-paid netminders. As the NHL continues to see goalies secure long-term deals, the market for elite goaltenders is becoming more defined.
One notable goalie who is still awaiting his next contract is Igor Shesterkin of the New York Rangers. Shesterkin has the potential to become the league’s highest-paid goalie, and his negotiations will be closely watched in the coming months.
Overall, Jake Oettinger’s contract extension with the Dallas Stars is a significant move that solidifies his position as a key player for the team. With his talent, youth, and potential for growth, Oettinger is poised to make a significant impact for the Stars in the years to come.