New Wrinkle Added to Jason Robertson Trade Talks, Stars Pushing New Agenda

The Dallas Stars are still trying to trade forward Jason Robertson. After a few trade options fell through this week — including a very public Seattle Kraken failed deal — the Stars are now shopping the winger to teams that once showed interest. But they’re taking a different approach to their trade discussions.

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NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reports that Dallas is still actively trying to trade Jason Robertson. Friedman said the team acquiring Robertson might have to acquire him without knowing if he’ll extend long-term. This is a huge shift that will change the return for Dallas. It means they’ll have to accept a lower return, since there’s no guarantee Robertson will stick with any team that takes the risk of acquiring him.

It’s one thing to give up several assets for Robertson in a trade where the forward extends. At worst, you give up a lot and you spend a lot knowing he wants $14-$15 million per season. But, if you have no assurances he’s going to stay, potentially sign a one-year qualifying offer and walk himself into unrestricted free agency, you can’t give up a ton.

Understandably, teams would be nervous and, as a result, trade talks have slowed right down. It’s a tricky spot. Robertson wants to sign in Dallas, but he wants more per season than the Stars are willing to pay. The Stars, meanwhile, aren’t willing to let him dictate the way this all unfolds. They won’t let him force a trade because he can walk on his own. Dallas would rather take a lesser return than get nothing.

What happens now remains unclear. Is there a team that Robertson is willing to sign with? How low will the offers be from teams happy enough to take Robertson on with no guarantees?

This could open the door for other clubs that weren’t previously involved. If a club is willing to make a one-year run, give up assets to add him like a rental, and then trade his rights, there could be a fit there.

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