Stars keep 'cornerstone' Jason Robertson with one-year deal
The Dallas Stars have reached a one-year, $12 million contract agreement with forward Jason Robertson, avoiding salary arbitration. Robertson, who turns 27 on Wednesday, led the team last season with 96 points and 45 goals.
This contract marks a significant financial commitment for the franchise. Robertson is now one of three players on the Stars roster with an annual salary exceeding $10 million, joining Thomas Harley and Mikko Rantanen. The agreement serves as a short-term solution for the team as they look to build on their performance in the Western Conference.
General Manager Jim Nill identified Robertson as a cornerstone of the organization since his 2017 draft selection. Despite speculation regarding a potential trade to the Seattle Kraken earlier this summer, the Stars have secured their primary offensive threat for the upcoming season.
Following the signing, the team now faces immediate salary cap adjustments. Financial projections indicate the club is currently over the cap limit, necessitating further roster moves to achieve compliance before the season starts. This step is critical for the organization as it pursues its objective of competing for the Stanley Cup.
Looking ahead to next offseason, the team faces a complex landscape. The league salary cap has increased to $104 million for the 2026-27 season, and Robertson is set to be part of a major free agent class. The front office will have to weigh his long-term future alongside other expiring contracts as they navigate the shifting financial environment of professional hockey.