Jason Robertson’s future in Dallas is far from guaranteed, with the Stars forward about to become an unrestricted free agent and his name nearing a return to the NHL rumor mill.
The Dallas Stars winger is reportedly seeking over $12 million annually on his next contract, a figure the organization may be unwilling to pay.
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Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos reported that the contract standoff could open the door for a major deal.
“One idea floating around the league is a bigger swing involving Dallas — specifically Jason Robertson,” Kypreos wrote. “Contract talks there haven’t been smooth, where Robertson is believed to be looking for north of $12 million a year, more than what Mikko Rantanen got. That’s not an easy number for the Stars.”
Robertson, 26, is tied for the lead among American-born players in points this season and is coming off back-to-back 80-point campaigns and a career-best 109-point season in 2022-23. He has 52 points through 44 games this season.
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According to Kypreos, the Toronto Maple Leafs have the cap structure to absorb a deal of that size. Even then, Kypreos noted the biggest obstacle in the Leafs’ path to acquiring Robertson.
“Toronto could pay it, but the question is the cost of acquisition,” Kypreos wrote.
Dallas Stars left wing Jason Robertson (21) warms up before a game.Robert Edwards-Imagn Images
Kypreos suggested a trade package would likely start with Leafs prospects Easton Cowan and Ben Danford, among other assets.
“That’s the kind of move that would actually change the Leafs’ makeup,” Kypreos said. “Whether they have the stomach for it is another matter.”
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The Maple Leafs (21-15-7) are projected to have more than $20 million in cap space next summer and sit fifth in the Atlantic Division after struggling for most of the first half of the season.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 10, 2026, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.