Robertson’s Contract Ask Could Shake Up Stars’ Offseason Plans
Jason Robertson’s next contract is shaping up to be one of the biggest storylines for the Dallas Stars this offseason - and maybe one of the most impactful across the league. The 24-year-old forward is reportedly seeking a deal north of Mikko Rantanen’s $12 million per year, a number that would place him among the NHL’s elite earners. And while Robertson’s production certainly puts him in that conversation, the Stars may find themselves at a crossroads.
Dallas isn’t in a position to hand out that kind of money lightly. They’re a contending team with a deep roster and long-term salary cap commitments, and if Robertson holds firm on that figure, it could force the Stars to explore the trade market.
This wouldn’t be a tear-it-down rebuild move - far from it. If they do entertain offers, they’ll be looking for NHL-ready players, not just futures.
Think hockey trade, not asset dump.
That kind of move, if it happens, is more likely to come in the summer when teams have more cap flexibility and the trade landscape opens up. But make no mistake: this situation has the potential to reshape the Stars’ roster in a major way.
Maple Leafs Eye Right-Handed Defenseman, But Cap Crunch Looms Large
In Toronto, the Maple Leafs are once again navigating the tightrope between ambition and reality. Their top priority ahead of the trade deadline is clear: find a right-shot defenseman to help stabilize a blue line that’s missing Chris Tanev. But there’s a problem - and it’s a familiar one.
The Leafs don’t have the kind of trade capital that tends to grease the wheels for big moves. No first-round picks to dangle.
Not a ton of high-end prospects to spare. That means GM Brad Treliving and his staff will need to get creative - or go bargain hunting.
They’re not just looking on defense, either. Toronto is also scanning the market for potential forward help.
But again, with limited assets, they’re likely shopping in the second or third tier of available players unless they can find a way to package something unexpected. It’s a delicate balancing act: trying to improve a team with postseason aspirations without mortgaging too much of the future or overpaying in a seller’s market.
Sharks, Sherwood Not Yet Aligned on Extension Talks
The San Jose Sharks made a bold move when they gave up two second-round picks to acquire forward Kiefer Sherwood. That kind of price tag usually signals a team that sees long-term value - and sure enough, the Sharks have opened exploratory talks on a contract extension.
But as of now, the two sides aren’t exactly on the same page. Sherwood’s camp is reportedly eyeing a deal that could push toward the $30 million range over the long term.
That’s a big number for a player who, while productive, hasn’t yet cemented himself as a top-line fixture. Still, he’s expected to get a look alongside Macklin Celebrini once the rookie phenom returns from injury - and if that chemistry clicks, Sherwood’s value could only rise.
The Sharks are clearly interested in keeping him, but they’re not ready to meet that asking price just yet. There’s still a lot of ground to cover in these negotiations, and it may take time - or a shift in leverage - before a deal gets done.
For now, San Jose has a player they believe can be part of their next core. Whether they can agree on what that’s worth remains to be seen.