Tyler Myers made a landmark appearance for the Dallas Stars during their home game against the Chicago Blackhawks on Sunday, becoming the first player born in Texas to skate in a regular-season or postseason game for the team. Myers, who hails from Houston, set a new precedent for native Texans within the Stars’ roster.
Trade and Career Background Leading to Dallas Debut
The Stars acquired Myers on Wednesday, shortly before the NHL trade deadline, from the Vancouver Canucks. Dallas sent a 2027 second-round draft pick and a 2029 fourth-round pick to Vancouver in exchange. The Canucks agreed to retain 50% of Myers’ remaining contract, meaning his average annual value for his time in Dallas is $1.5 million through this season and the next. Myers is set to become a free agent in 2027.
Now 36 years old, Myers is in his 17th NHL season, having previously played for the Buffalo Sabres (2009–15), Winnipeg Jets (2015–19), and Vancouver Canucks (2019–present). Before joining Dallas, he recorded eight points — one goal and seven assists — across 57 games this season, averaging just over 20 minutes of ice time per game.
Personal Roots and Connection to Texas
Though Myers was born in Texas, he relocated to Calgary with his father at age 10 and later became a Canadian citizen. Despite this, he retains family ties in Texas. After the trade, Myers reflected on his hometown connection.
I was born in Texas. I have some family ties still down in Texas,
Myers told reporters after the trade.
So that was very exciting. Just one of the reasons why Dallas was a preference. We’re incredibly excited to be joining the team, and already a great team. And very excited to get back down south again.
— Tyler Myers, Dallas Stars defenseman
Broader Impact: Texas-Born Players Gaining Prominence
Myers’ debut is emblematic of hockey’s growing presence in Texas. His maternal half-brother, Quentin Grimes, currently plays in the NBA for the Philadelphia 76ers and spent part of last season with the Dallas Mavericks. They represent the first known siblings to compete professionally in both the NHL and NBA.
Additionally, two other native Texans made waves at the recent Winter Olympics as members of Team USA’s ice hockey squads. Arlington’s Seth Jones was named to the roster but missed the tournament due to injury, while Coppell’s Hannah Bilka earned Olympic All-Star honors after winning gold in Milan.
What Myers’ Arrival Means for the Dallas Stars and Texas Hockey
Tyler Myers’ status as the first native Texan to play for the Dallas Stars marks a milestone for local talent development and the sport’s expanding footprint in the region. His presence adds experience and depth to a team already known for its competitiveness. As hockey continues to gain momentum in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and beyond, Myers’ journey may inspire future players from Texas to reach professional ranks.
Tyler Myers is officially the first native Texan to play in a game for the Dallas Stars. pic.twitter.com/eXfXs1Hnd6
— Lia Assimakopoulos (@Lassimak) March 8, 2026
