“We watched him (Thursday),” Stars coach Glen Gulutzan said. “Obviously the veteran presence is there and his real player, how good he is along the walls. He’s heavy and tough with the pucks, he’s got a huge hockey IQ, he’s competitive and that’s the reason we got him.”
Perron, who has been an unrestricted free agent since July 1, will be playing his 20th season in the NHL.
“We are thrilled to welcome David and his family to the Stars organization,” said Stars General Manager Jim Nill. “He brings a competitive spirit and a proven ability to perform in big moments. We believe his leadership and veteran skills will be a valuable addition to our group as we continue to progress toward our goal of winning the Stanley Cup.”
Selected by the St. Louis Blues in the first round (26th overall) of the 2007 NHL Draft, Perron has 812 points (332 goals, 480 assists) in 1,239 regular season games with the Blues, Edmonton Oilers, Pittsburgh Penguins, Anaheim Ducks, Vegas Golden Knights, Red Wings and Senators, and 64 points (26 goals, 38 assists) in 110 games for Stanley. Cup playoff matches.
The Stars (3-3-1) are currently without forward Matt Duchene for three months due to muscle surgery.
“A lot of experience, a smart player with a lot of skill,” Stars captain Jamie Benn said of Perron. “He gives us a little more impact. I think it’s his 20th year, so leadership and experience. I played against him for a long time and he wasn’t that fun to play against. He’s got grit, which is great. He’s going to be great for our hockey club.”
Perron, who won the Stanley Cup with the Blues in 2019, will not be with the Stars for their game against the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday (7 p.m. ET; Prime Video, CHSN). due to visa issues.
“He’ll have to skate a few times and get up to speed with us,” Gulutzan said. “I’ve seen him play on both ends, so he’s the epitome of a hockey player. He can play on both wings and again, it’s that hockey IQ and that competitiveness that’s the real advantage for us.”
NHL.com writer Tracey Myers contributed to this report.
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