Faksa, Klingberg to Join Texas This Week; Others Coming?

(Credit: Christina Shapiro/Texas Stars)

Mark Stepneski reported today that Czech forward Radek Faksa and Swedish defenseman John Klingberg will both join the Texas Stars this week. The two were drafted by Dallas and have completed their seasons with their respective clubs in the OHL and SHL. Faksa played two games last year on a brief assignment and Klingberg one in the playoffs.

Others who may be joining the ATO-type crew this year include Cody Payne and Branden Troock. Payne's Saginaw Spirit were eliminated from the playoffs last week by the Erie Otters. Troock's Thunderbirds made it through to the second round in the WHL but will face top-seeded Kelowna.

Edit: Facebook commenter Chad Turley pointed out that Gemel Smith is done with his eligibility this season as well. His London Knights are into the second round of the OHL playoffs against the Guelph Storm. However, even if they lose out, London is hosting the Memorial Cup this year and gets an automatic bid as a result. We shouldn't expect to see Smith this year. The Memorial Cup ends May 26th.