Tomorrow is the start of free agency in the NHL and AHL alike. While Dallas looks at forwards like Joe Pavelski, the Texas Stars also have important gaps to fill as the free agent period opens on July 1.
First of all, it's important to note that NHL/AHL signings are traditionally not taken care of first thing on Day 1. NHL clubs have to see who wins the various sweepstakes for top line players like Pavelski, Mats Zuccarello and Matt Duchene to see where everything else will shake out. That being said, the introduction of the free agency interview period in the most recent CBA has given more clarity to that process and put more AHL-relevant deals on day 1 of free agency.