Report: UFA Blake Coleman wants to return to Dallas

Credit: Kim Klement

May 26, 2021; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning center Blake Coleman (20) shoots as Florida Panthers goaltender Spencer Knight (30) makes a save during the third period during game six of the first round of the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

It appears that when the Tampa Bay Lightning season is over, Blake Coleman may be heading to Dallas.

According to Bally Sports’ Andy Strickland, Coleman, a UFA at season’s end, is believed to want to sign with the Stars.

Many believe Coleman wants to go home to Dallas. #gostars https://t.co/BU0E1G7Ma6

— Andy Strickland (@andystrickland) June 16, 2021

Coleman, 29, is a native of Plano, Texas, a city of nearly 300,000 30 minutes outside of Dallas and he would make sense for the Stars. Coleman has proven his worth as a versatile middle-six forward with both the New Jersey Devils and the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Over his 301 game career, he’s scored 71 goals and 126 points. This last year with Tampa, he piled 31 points in 55 games — by far his most productive NHL season.

According to Daily Faceoff, Dallas’s forward lines ranked among the worst in the league. Someone like Coleman could undoubtedly provide a boost to that group.

Zach Laing is the Nation Network’s news director and senior columnist. He can be followed on Twitter at @zjlaing, or reached by email at zach@oilersnation.com.