Trade rumors about Dallas Stars' Jason Robertson have grabbed headlines in the offseason. However, a fresh update suggests the franchise wants to keep its star winger.

NHL insider Chris Johnston of The Athletic reported that the Stars are trying to sign Robertson to a new contract, although negotiations have not been easy. NHL Rumor Report later shared Johnston’s comments on X.

“Finding the right number hasn't been easy; a trade is not yet something the Stars want to seriously entertain,” Johnston told The Athletic.

The point of difference seems to be finding the right amount. The Dallas Stars and Jason Robertson are trying to agree on a contract that works for both parties within the team's salary-cap limits.

ESPN’s Emily Kaplan also recently reported that all signs point to Robertson signing an extension with Dallas instead of being traded.

"The Jason Robertson saga will finally see some clarity and all signs point to an extension in Dallas, rather than a trade," she stated.

Robertson’s current four-year, $31 million contract ends on July 1, 2026. He will then become a Restricted Free Agent (RFA) with arbitration rights. Keeping him is expected to be one of Dallas’ biggest priorities this offseason.

The 26-year-old had another great season. He played all 82 games and amassed 96 points (45 goals and 51 assists), leading the Dallas Stars in scoring.

GM Jim Nill recently said he hopes Robertson stays with the Stars for his entire career. Speaking to The Dallas Morning News, he has highlighted Robertson's extension as his top priority.

Since Dallas drafted him 39th overall in 2017, Robertson has become one of the NHL’s top offensive players. He has also been a robust presence, playing all 82 regular season-games over the last four years.

Dallas Facing Cap Crunch as Extension Talks for Jason Robertson Continue

The Dallas Stars want to keep Jason Robertson but signing a long-term deal may be difficult. They have $11.03 million in projected space to fill out the roster, as per The Sporting News. Furthermore, the organization has to make decision on other free agents.

Robertson gives the Dallas Stars much more than just goals and points. He plays on a strong top line with center Wyatt Johnston and forward Mikko Rantanen, helping create one of the NHL’s best offensive lineups.

Players with Robertson's production can command up to $12 million, which becomes evident with his teammate Rantanen's eight-year deal at $96 million.

As veterans like center Jamie Benn and forwards Tyler Seguin and Matt Duchene get older, Dallas sees Robertson as a key part of the team’s future. A new deal would cement the team's offense for at least the next five years.

While contract talks continue, insiders point to Dallas and Robertson staying together for a long time.

What do you think? Will the Stars continue with Robertson after his current contract? 

Read more at the NHL Fan Central.

Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Sijo Paul