The Dallas Stars have made significant moves in recent weeks, acquiring Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci. These trades come as the team navigates the complexities of salary cap space, particularly following Tyler Seguin's placement on injured reserve after hip surgery. Granlund has shown versatility, being able to play both center and wing, while Ceci is expected to bolster the defense.

Moreover, the team may not be finished with its trading efforts. With Seguin's absence, the Stars have approximately $9.85 million in cap space to utilize, which could lead to further acquisitions as they prepare for a potential playoff run.

The Dallas Stars showcased their resilience, securing a 5-3 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets at the American Airlines Center, propelled by a strong performance from Evgenii Dadonov, who netted two crucial goals in the third period. This win marked the Stars' fifth consecutive victory, a testament to their improved roster following recent trades.

Returning forward Mason Marchment made an immediate impact in his first game back after a 17-game absence due to facial surgery. He contributed with a goal and drew a penalty during his first shift. Additionally, new acquisitions Cody Ceci and Mikael Granlund, who arrived from the San Jose Sharks, debuted without prior practice but quickly integrated into the team dynamics, assisting in the offensive plays. Despite minor injuries, including a departure from Mavrik Bourque due to a puck to the face, the Stars left the ice optimistic about their current form.

The Dallas Stars are set to stabilize their lineup as they welcome back key players for their upcoming game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. Forward Mason Marchment returns after a lengthy absence due to a facial injury that required surgery, having missed 17 games. Before his injury, Marchment was among the Stars' top contributors, with 12 goals and 15 assists in just 32 games.

In addition to Marchment, the Stars have also acquired forwards Mikael Granlund and defenseman Cody Ceci from the San Jose Sharks. This trade, which involved a first-round and a conditional pick in the 2025 draft, aims to bolster the team as they push for a playoff spot. Granlund, in his 13th NHL season, recorded 45 points this season, while Ceci contributed to an impressive playoff run with the Edmonton Oilers last year. Their integration into the lineup will be crucial as the Stars face off against the Blue Jackets.

The San Jose Sharks recently saw the departure of two key players, Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci, traded to the Dallas Stars, which has left the team in a reflective mood. Alternate captain Luke Kunin expressed his gratitude for Granlund's contributions, highlighting his role in shaping the younger players and the team's culture. Fellow players, including William Eklund, shared their sadness, acknowledging Granlund's leadership both on and off the ice.

With Granlund’s exit, expectations shift for young players like Eklund and Fabian Zetterlund, who were positively influenced by him. The Sharks’ management is keenly aware of the leadership void, recognizing the challenge it presents as the team aims to continue improving.

In recent NHL discussions, the trend of trading first-round picks for rental players has gained traction, highlighted by significant deals involving Marcus Pettersson and Drew O'Connor to the Vancouver Canucks, along with Mikael Granlund and Cody Ceci joining the Dallas Stars. With the trade deadline approaching on March 7th, teams seem willing to give up valuable draft assets despite a less favorable outlook on this year's draft class.

The Calgary Flames have communicated to other teams that Rasmus Anderson, Nazem Kadri, and Mackenzie Weegar are off the market, indicating their commitment to holding onto key assets as they vie for playoff contention. The confidence in their roster is evident, particularly with Anderson entering a contract year, as they believe they can retain him.

Additionally, chatter around the NHL suggests the salary cap may rise higher than previously projected, with expectations for next year's cap set at $95.5 million. If the economic landscape stabilizes, future caps could reach even loftier heights.