Stars extend backup goaltender Casey DeSmith
The Dallas Stars signed Casey DeSmith to a two-year extension worth $5 million, keeping him through 2028-29. The 35-year-old has posted a .911 save percentage and three shutouts in 53 games over two seasons as Jake Oettinger's backup. General manager Jim Nill said extending DeSmith was a priority and praised his reliability.
Dallas has secured Casey DeSmith for two more seasons after his current contract ends. The extension carries a $5 million total and a $2.5 million annual average from 2027-28 through 2028-29. He is 35 and currently in the last year of a three-year Stars deal worth $3.05 million overall.
Across two Dallas seasons, DeSmith owns a .911 save percentage and three shutouts in 53 appearances, with Jake Oettinger handling the primary role. DeSmith arrived as a free agent in 2024 and has earned 29 wins for the Stars. His NHL résumé shows 220 regular-season games, 99 wins, and a .910 save percentage split among Dallas, Pittsburgh, and Vancouver.
The extension may give Dallas stability in net and reduce uncertainty for teammates and fans, while keeping a veteran mentor for younger goalies. It could also shape how other teams value experienced backups, though its broader societal effect is likely limited to the hockey community and those connected to the club.