The versatile Gardner, who was the NCHC Defensive Forward of the Year in 2017-18, is a faceoff specialist who won 62.3 percent of his draws this past season. The 6-3, 210-pound, left-handed shooting Gardner is an excellent penalty killer and can move up and down the lineup.
"Rhett plays a real hard, heavy game," Nill said. "He's great on draws, a great penalty killer. He plays a man's game. Good net-front presence on the power play. We're excited to watch him."
Cecconi, a fifth-round pick in 2015, is coming off a four-year career at the University of Michigan where he tallied 62 points (9 goals, 53 assists) in 147 games. The 6-2, 210-pound Cecconi, who shoots right-handed, was considered a shutdown defensive defenseman early in his career but has blossomed offensively the past two seasons, tallying 47 points (8 goals, 39 assists) in 76 games.
There was speculation that Cecconi might pass on signing with the Stars and try free agency, but Nill denied the Stars had any concerns.
"We kept in touch with him, and he's always been very positive whenever we've talked to him," Nill said. "In the end, I went up and met with him in Michigan, and he was excited about turning pro. He wants to be a Dallas Star."
Melnick, a free agent signing, played four years at Miami University, where he recorded 107 points (38 goals, 69 assists) in 140 games. He led the RedHawks in scoring this season with 26 points (10 goals, 16 assists) in 32 games. A 5-10, 180-pound winger who shoots right, Melnick recorded at least 25 points in each of his four seasons at Miami.
"High energy, plays the game the right way. Good offensive numbers," said Nill.
