2015–17 Post-Cup Rebuild

Lore & Background

After a strong run that included a Stanley Cup in 1999 and another Final appearance in 2000, the Stars eventually declined and underwent a full-scale rebuild by the mid-2010s. General manager Jim Nill orchestrated key trades, bringing in Tyler Seguin in 2013 and Jason Spezza in 2014, while building around homegrown star Jamie Benn, drafted in 2007. The team focused on developing a young, fast, and skilled roster to compete in the modern NHL.

Reader's Guide

Spano's attempt to buy the Dallas Stars is a cautionary tale of fraud and failed negotiations. Key figures include Stars president Jim Lites, owner Norman Green, and eventual buyer Tom Hicks. Spano's claimed wealth was based on a fraudulent letter from bankers, and his mansion in University Park was unfurnished. He insisted Lites pick up dinner tabs, which Lites said he had never seen in his years as a sports executive.

Did You Know?

• Tyler Seguin was acquired in a blockbuster trade with the Boston Bruins in July 2013.
• Jason Spezza was traded from the Ottawa Senators in July 2014, forming a dynamic duo with Seguin.
• Jamie Benn, drafted in 2007, emerged as the team's captain and a scoring leader during this era.