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Stars sign Roope Hintz to eight-year contract extension

Roope Hintz has signed a long-term deal with the Dallas Stars. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

Dallas Stars center Roope Hintz signed an eight-year, $67.6-million contract extension, the team announced Tuesday.

The contract carries an annual average value of $8.45 million and keeps him in Dallas through the 2030-31 season.

Hintz is one of the NHL’s best two-way forwards and broke out during the 2020 Stanley Cup playoffs. The 26-year-old has recorded eight goals and 24 points in 22 games this season, and has been an essential part of the Stars’ excellent start to the year.

Affectionally nicknamed "Ace of Spades," Hintz is coming off the best season of his career where he notched 37 goals and 72 points in 80 games.

Hintz, who features as the team's No. 1 center but is readily capable of playing either wing, has been one of the premier defensive forwards in the NHL this season. He’s been on the ice for 21 goals with just eight against at five-on-five and can be deployed in virtually every situation for the Stars. Dallas selected Hintz 49th overall in the 2015 NHL Draft and he’s provided excellent return on value.

“Roope is a dynamic two-way centerman who has proven to be one of the best at his position in the NHL," Stars general manager Jim Nill said in a statement. "He's developed into one of our most versatile players, making an impact on special teams and at even strength, and can be counted on by our coaching staff in every situation.

"We are fortunate to have him in Victory Green for an additional eight years and look forward to his continued growth as a player."

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