Robertson’s contract situation
Jason Robertson, a prominent winger for the Dallas Stars, has reportedly declined a contract offer from the Seattle Kraken. According to multiple sources, the Kraken were granted permission by Dallas to engage in discussions with Robertson’s representatives. The offer extended was approximately $15 million per year over an eight-year term, but it was not accepted.
Neither the Stars nor the Kraken, nor Robertson’s representative, Andy Scott, have commented on the situation. It is understood that a potential trade between the two teams had been discussed prior to the permission being granted, which reportedly included Seattle’s first-round pick, the seventh overall selection in the upcoming draft.
The Stars and Robertson are believed to have a difference of at least $2 million per season in their contract negotiations. The team’s current top contract is held by Mikko Rantanen at $12 million annually, and there was an expectation that Robertson’s deal would align closely with that figure. Robertson is set to become a restricted free agent on July 1.
Trade speculation and other interested teams
The stalled contract talks have led to increasing speculation about a potential trade involving Robertson. Reports suggest that a significant swap could send the winger to the Detroit Red Wings, with Dallas potentially targeting captain Dylan Larkin to enhance their lineup’s speed.
The possibility of an offer sheet has also been raised, particularly if Robertson remains unsigned by the Stars by July 1. This suggests that other teams in the league are closely monitoring the situation. One report indicated that a trade for Robertson is more likely than not.
Robertson, who recorded 45 goals and 51 assists for a total of 96 points in 82 games last season, is reportedly seeking a substantial long-term contract. While the Stars appear hesitant to meet his demands, teams like the Red Wings may have the financial flexibility to do so.
The Stars are reportedly a frontrunner to acquire Larkin, who could address Dallas’s need for a speed-driven, two-way center. Larkin achieved a career-high of 34 goals and 33 assists for 67 points in 74 games. The long-standing relationship between Stars general manager Jim Nill and Red Wings GM Steve Yzerman, who worked together in Detroit for many years, could facilitate a deal.
For Detroit, acquiring Robertson’s rights is appealing, given their over $29 million in cap space. A player of Robertson’s calibre, a near-100-point scorer, would signify a significant step in the Red Wings’ rebuild. The fact that the two clubs play in opposite conferences could also make a trade more palatable for both sides.
Dallas Stars GM Jim Nill has stated that securing Robertson is a priority for the team. He mentioned that Robertson is a player they drafted, developed, and who has become a star in the league. Nill is also engaging in trade discussions with multiple teams regarding Robertson’s availability.
The Ottawa Senators, Detroit Red Wings, Seattle Kraken, Utah Mammoth, and Pittsburgh Penguins are among the teams believed to have expressed interest in Robertson. Negotiations and trade conversations are expected to intensify leading up to the NHL Draft.
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Source: sportsnet.ca
