And as examples go, just knowing Upshall's story can be motivating for Stars players.
"I think it should only help," Montgomery said. "I think for a lot of players that do have contracts right now, it's a reminder of how quickly you can be on that side. Sports is what have you done for me lately, and for veteran players I think it's a good reminder."
For Upshall, it's not that bad of a place. The fact that he has had to work so hard to come back from him knee surgery, and that he feels so good about where he is right now, is almost reward enough. And while Thursday's exhibition affair in Denver was invigorating, there is still the drive to be on the ice for another NHL regular season game, be it in Dallas or someplace else.
"For me, I've had a great career, but it's still a dream to be here playing hard hockey, and I'd just like the opportunity," he said, indicating he'd love that opportunity to come with the Stars.
"I'm very familiar with the group," Upshall said. "I think the group is ready to rock and roll. They've got a really driven coaching staff that wants to win, the goaltending is Vezina talent, and quite frankly, watching playoff hockey last year really lit the fire inside me to come back and try to win.
"The opportunity is here now. This is the team I want to make."
This story was not subject to the approval of the National Hockey League or Dallas Stars Hockey Club.
Mike Heika is a Senior Staff Writer for DallasStars.com and has covered the Stars since 1994. Follow him on Twitter @MikeHeika.