Jamie Benn's future with the Dallas Stars remains uncertain after the team's first-round playoff exit, but head coach Glen Gulutzan made it clear where he stands: "He needs to come back."

The Stars captain, now 36, has been the face of the franchise since debuting in 2009, but his 18th season ended in disappointment as Dallas fell to the Colorado Avalanche in Game 5. When asked about his plans moving forward, Benn offered a characteristically laid-back response: "Figure it out later."

It's a familiar refrain for veteran stars facing the twilight of their careers, but Benn's situation carries extra weight. He's not just any player—he's a former Art Ross Trophy winner (2015), a two-time NHL First-Team All-Star, and the heart of a Dallas team that reached the Stanley Cup Final as recently as 2020. His leadership and physical presence have been instrumental in the Stars' identity as a hard-nosed, defensive-minded squad.

Gulutzan's public endorsement suggests the organization values Benn's intangibles as much as his on-ice production, which has naturally declined with age (he posted 15 goals and 25 assists in 74 games this season). For a team that prides itself on grit and experience, losing Benn would leave a void that goes beyond the stat sheet.

As the Stars look to retool for another run, the captain's decision will set the tone. Whether Benn returns for one more lap or hangs up his skates, his legacy in Dallas is already secure. But for now, the answer is simple: later.