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Stars sign Mattias Backman to one-year, two-way deal

2012 World Junior Hockey Championships - Bronze Medal - Sweden v Russia

CALGARY, CANADA - JANUARY 5: Mattias Backman #5 of Team Sweden skates with the puck during the 2012 World Junior Hockey Championship Gold Medal game against Team Russia at the Scotiabank Saddledome on January 5, 2012 in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Team Sweden defeated Team Russia 1-0 in overtime. (Photo by Richard Wolowicz/Getty Images)

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When it comes to improving the Dallas Stars’ defense from within, they at least have a decent array of young options.

Whether those young options actually pan out remains to be seen, yet they’re giving themselves an array of choices, especially after retaining Mattias Backman via a one-year, two-way deal on Thursday.

Here’s a blurb about the decent-sized blueliner, via the Stars:

Backman has earned 36 points (8-28=36) in 90 career AHL contests with the Texas Stars and Grand Rapids Griffins. The defenseman has appeared in 16 career games in the Calder Cup Playoffs, registering nine points (1-8=9) and 18 shots on goal. Backman also won a gold medal at the 2012 IIHF U20 World Junior Championship with Team Sweden, skating alongside current Dallas Stars John Klingberg and Patrik Nemeth.

That last bit can’t hurt, as familiarity could at least improve his chances of gaining a depth position or call-up opportunities.

His Hockey’s Future analysis gives you the impression that he presents “more of the same” for the Stars:

Talent Analysis

Despite his size, Backman doesn’t play a particularly physical or powerful game. He is a simple, economical defenseman who makes the smart play and knows to play within himself. He’s an excellent skater for his size, makes a good first pass and makes good decisions with and without the puck. He won’t wow you, but he won’t often be beat or get caught cheating either.

The Stars likely hope that he can develop into another decent option, especially if they decide against splashy moves this summer.

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