The Dallas Stars are recalling former Badger Cameron Hughes from their AHL affiliate. The Stars are turning to him at a crucial time as they look to make their playoff push. Dallas has locked up inclusion in the NHL playoffs, but the team is looking to land an ideal placement and get hot before it all begins.
The forward is on a tear for the Texas Stars, and Dallas isn't just pulling him up out of desperation due to injuries; he's on a tear right now. He leads the AHL in Assists with 50 and is tied for second in points with 66. He's done this all in only 63 games. The 29-year-old is giving a much-needed boost to his NHL team.
We have recalled forward Cameron Hughes from the @TexasStars 🚨 pic.twitter.com/KHsdeWErLR
— x - Dallas Stars (@DallasStars) March 30, 2026
Former Badger Cameron Hughes has been called up to the Dallas Stars in time for the playoffs
While Hughes is red-hot, the Stars are also struggling with injuries. They've seen Sam Steel, Nate Bastian, and Michael Bunting recently, while Roope Hintz and Radek Faksa have been and remain out. That's created a nice opportunity and hole for Hughes to fill.
Hughes was part of the Wisconsin Badgers from 2014 to 2018, which, if you know your Wisconsin hockey history, was a rough stretch for the program. Yet, Hughes was one of the bright spots and was eventually drafted by the Boston Bruins. He spent a couple of years in Boston.
In 2024, he signed a contract with the Dallas Stars. He's been up and down with them ever since. He's logged a few other call-ups, but none have been at such a crucial time as this. Nor has it come when he's as ready for the NHL as he appears to be now.
The former Badger hasn't had an easy NHL path, but maybe this time the stars are really aligning for him to not only be on the NHL team but part of the lines and put together a positive impact for a playoff team.