The Dallas Stars’ playoff exit at the hands of the Edmonton Oilers wasn’t just the end of their season; it was the start of the clock on Jason Robertson’s future in Dallas. As someone who keeps a close ear to the ground on these matters, I can tell you the chatter around Robertson isn’t just smoke; there’s a fire here, and it’s heating up. The question is no longer if a resolution is coming, but what that resolution will be—and a trade is becoming an increasingly plausible outcome.
The latest Jason Robertson news points to a standoff. Stars GM Jim Nill is a shrewd operator, and he’s not going to be backed into a corner. My sources align with what NHL insider Jeff Marek recently stated: a decision is expected “sooner than later.” Nill has a number in mind, a ceiling he won’t breach. This isn’t a negotiation tactic; it’s a line in the sand. If Robertson’s camp, led by his agent Pat Brisson, comes in too high, Nill won’t hesitate to explore the trade market. And believe me, the market for a young, elite goal-scorer like Robertson would be white-hot.
The Multi-Million Dollar Question: What Is Robertson’s Magic Number?
So, what’s the sticking point? It all comes down to the AAV (Average Annual Value). Elliotte Friedman nailed it on his podcast; the benchmark everyone is watching is Mikko Rantanen’s $12 million AAV that he signed with the Stars when he was traded.
From what I’m hearing, the Stars’ front office simply will not go that high. They see Robertson as a phenomenal offensive talent, but they have concerns about his all-around game, particularly his consistency in the postseason.
Fan Reaction: Is Robertson Worth Rantanen Money?
This sentiment is echoed by a vocal portion of the fanbase. They see a player who can disappear for stretches, especially when the checking gets tight in the playoffs. The consensus among many is that Rantanen’s more complete game and proven playoff resume justify his salary in a way that Robertson’s doesn’t… yet.
Fans and insiders are comfortable in the $10-$11 million range, but anything approaching Rantanen territory is seen as a massive overpayment. The organization feels the pressure to not only sign the player but also to sign him to a contract that makes sense for the team’s long-term cap structure. If the two sides are miles apart, a trade becomes the only logical conclusion.
Your Home for Dallas Stars News and More
For the absolute latest on Jason Robertson news and all developing NHL trade rumors, make sure to add nhltraderumor.com to your bookmarks. While you’re there, check out our NHL Playoff Hockey Pool for a chance to win cash prizes and find out how to watch the Stars game on TV today. Don’t miss a single update—sign up for our newsletter below!
The post The Jason Robertson Saga: Why a Shocking Trade from Dallas is a Real Possibility appeared first on NHL Trade Rumors.
