Jason Robertson continues to remain an unsigned restricted free agent as the Dallas Stars navigate the early days of the NHL free agency period. General manager Jim Nill confirmed on Wednesday that the organization is still in communication with the forward’s representatives and maintains the objective of securing his services long-term.
Nill noted that the current period is standard for contract negotiations, emphasizing that the hockey season does not begin until September. He stated there were no new updates regarding the forward’s status, though he acknowledged the complexity of the situation.
Prior to the free agency window opening, the Stars had reportedly arranged a sign-and-trade agreement that would have sent Robertson to the Seattle Kraken in exchange for the seventh overall draft pick. While Robertson holds the right to veto such a move, he reportedly declined to agree to a long-term contract with Seattle.
The reported terms of that potential deal included $120 million spread over eight years, averaging $15 million per season.
Robertson, who turns 27 on July 22, is currently finishing the final year of a four-year, $31 million contract signed in 2022. He remains the highest-paid player on the Dallas roster, surpassing Mikko Rantanen, who recently completed the first season of an eight-year, $96 million extension. Dallas is located approximately 12 miles south of Richardson.
The team submitted a qualifying offer to Robertson before free agency began, preserving their right to match any offers from other teams or receive draft compensation if the offer is not matched. A qualifying offer of at least $11,939,167 would entitle Dallas to four first-round selections if the player signs elsewhere.
Another potential path involves salary arbitration, which could determine the value of Robertson’s 2026-27 contract before he becomes an unrestricted free agent next summer. The deadline for filing for arbitration is this Saturday. When asked if arbitration was likely, Nill declined to speculate, stating he did not know the forward’s intentions.