Logan Stankoven’s first NHL season with the Dallas Stars has been a whirlwind experience for the young player from British Columbia. Stankoven made his NHL debut in February and had several noteworthy achievements throughout the season.
The 21-year-old forward was honored as the American Hockey League’s (AHL) Rookie of the Year and celebrated his first NHL goal on his birthday. Stankoven’s milestone moments continued into the Stanley Cup playoffs, where he scored his inaugural playoff goal during Game 3 of the first round.
Reflecting on his unexpected promotion from the Texas Stars, Dallas’s AHL affiliate, Stankoven shared his excitement and gratitude. “I didn’t really expect a call-up,” he told Shelley Joyce, host of CBC’s Daybreak Kamloops. “I just wanted to put myself in the best opportunity or best-case scenario to get called up. So, it was pretty cool.”
After the Stars were eliminated in the Western Conference Final, Stankoven returned to his hometown of Kamloops for some well-deserved rest, although he plans to continue training to stay in peak condition for the next season. Being back home allows him to enjoy time with family and friends, and savor his parents’ home-cooked meals. Stankoven appreciates Kamloops for its warm, dry summers and the community’s supportive, small-town atmosphere despite its size.
During his time with the Stars, Stankoven and fellow rookie Wyatt Johnston stayed with veteran player Joe Pavelski, an experience he found preferable to hotel living. “It’s a bit better than a hotel,” he said with a laugh in an April interview with CBC. He expressed gratitude for Pavelski’s hospitality and mentorship, noting how veterans like Pavelski help younger players grow both on and off the ice. Pavelski had previously hosted Johnston, marking his first time mentoring a younger teammate in such a way.
Stankoven also received encouragement from other NHL greats. Following Dallas’s defeat to Edmonton in Game 6 of the Western Conference Final, Oilers captain Connor McDavid offered words of praise. “He just kind of said, hey, you’re a great player. I’ve got a lot of respect for you,” Stankoven recounted. Being recognized by McDavid, often considered the best player in the world, left Stankoven feeling starstruck and honored.
Family support has been a constant for Stankoven throughout his hockey journey. His parents are actively involved, frequently checking in on his well-being around game times. They were particularly proud when Stankoven scored his first NHL goal on his 21st birthday against the New York Islanders on February 26. Later, on May 11, he scored two playoff goals against the Colorado Avalanche, which his parents and extended family watched together in Campbell River, celebrating each moment.
Logan Stankoven’s rookie season with the Dallas Stars has been a series of remarkable experiences and achievements. From his unexpected NHL debut and scoring his first goals to the mentorship from veteran players and support from his family, Stankoven has navigated his first year in the big league with resilience and promise. Now, as he enjoys some downtime in Kamloops, he remains focused on his development and eagerly anticipates the next chapter in his NHL career.
