Dallas Stars defenseman Thomas Harley emerging as next big NHL contract extension candidate

Thomas Harley’s rise on the Dallas Stars’ blue line has quickly made him one of the NHL’s most intriguing young defensemen to watch heading into the 2025–26 season. After a breakout campaign where he filled in seamlessly for Miro Heiskanen, Harley has positioned himself as a cornerstone in Dallas, and according to insiders, he’s now on track for a massive contract extension that could reshape the team’s salary cap picture.

Dallas Stars’ Thomas Harley’s breakout season positions him for massive NHL contract extension payday

The 24-year-old defenseman is entering the final year of his two-year, $4 million deal and has established himself as a vital part of the Stars’ top four. Last season, Harley recorded 16 goals and 34 assists for 50 points in 78 games, while adding 14 points in 18 playoff contests.Harley’s ability to step up during Heiskanen’s injury absence highlighted his growing importance to Dallas. His strong play even earned him recognition from Hockey Canada, where he was added to the 4 Nations roster as a late injury replacement.

With the 2026 Winter Olympics on the horizon, Harley has a realistic chance of representing Team Canada, which would only boost his stock further.

Dallas Stars weigh contract ceiling for Thomas Harley and long-term NHL salary cap implications

On a recent episode of Empty Netters, insider Jeff Marek revealed that the Stars are using Miro Heiskanen’s $8.45 million contract as the ceiling for Harley’s future deal. That figure reflects Dallas’ commitment to keeping Heiskanen as the franchise’s defensive anchor, but also suggests Harley could earn a salary close to that mark depending on his performance this season.

For Dallas, the challenge will be balancing Harley’s well-deserved raise with existing commitments to stars like Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Jake Oettinger. Harley’s continued development ensures he will command a significant payday, and how the Stars structure his extension will be pivotal for their long-term salary cap strategy.Thomas Harley has gone from a promising first-round pick to a cornerstone defenseman in Dallas, and his next contract could reflect that transformation. With his breakout year behind him and a pivotal season ahead, Harley is not only strengthening the Stars’ blue line but also positioning himself as one of the league’s most notable contract extension candidates. Dallas now faces the task of rewarding Harley while preserving the cap flexibility needed to stay in contention.Also Read: Edmonton Oilers’ Connor McDavid crowned highest-rated player in NHL 26 by EA Sports