The contract saga surrounding Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson may have upset some of his teammates. Robertson, 27, has been making headlines this summer. The winger ultimately decided to avoid arbitration, which was scheduled on Saturday, July 25, and sign a one-year, $12 million deal to remain in Dallas, Texas.
The Dallas Stars locked down their top scorer in Robertson. He finished the 2025-26 NHL season with 45 goals, 51 assists, 96 points, and a +22 rating. His 96 points ranked 10th in the NHL. His 96-point season was his second-highest total of his professional hockey career. He’s one of the most consistent offensive threats in the league.
However, the success on the ice may be overshadowed by his dragged-out saga. NHL insider Jeff Marek recently addressed Robertson’s contract saga in an episode of the Daily Faceoff’s The Sheet podcast. Marek claimed that he knew some of the Stars’ players were left “pretty upset” by how the now-27-year-old’s saga played out this offseason. Here’s more on the topic.
Jason Robertson May Have Upset Dallas Stars Teammates
Jason Robertson may have upset some of his Dallas Stars teammates. On Thursday, July 23, NHL insider Jeff Marek claimed that he knew some Stars players were left “pretty upset” by how Robertson’s contract situation played out. He also claimed that he doubted any Stars player would go on the record about their thoughts and feelings.
Regarding the Robertson saga and contract extension, Marek told the Daily Faceoffs’ The Sheet podcast, “I don’t think you’re gonna see any players of the Stars go on record…but I’m of the firm belief that there are some guys that were pretty upset about this — I shouldn’t say I believe, I know this.”
Marek’s recent comments make sense. Robertson’s saga officially ended on Tuesday, July 21, when he signed a one-year, $12 million contract. His contract sent shockwaves through the NHL world, but it’s important to note that his long-winded stalemate had a ripple effect, both on and off the ice.
Despite Stars general manager Jim Nill downplaying any concerns, Robertson’s saga remains a sensitive issue for some people. Of course, Robertson and company would say everything is fine, but the team’s relationship-building appears to be an issue. If he signed sooner, Dallas may not have moved center Mavrik Bourque and defenseman Ilya Lyubushkin.
In addition, Dallas reportedly had a plan to acquire Columbus Blue Jackets defenseman and alternate captain Zach Werenski in a blockbuster trade. The trade would’ve sent Thomas Harley, 24, to Columbus, Ohio, but Werenski, 29, exercised his no-trade clause. This specific outcome may have affected Harley’s relationship with the Stars.
Stars Ultimately Retain Robertson
The Stars ultimately retained Robertson, an NHL star who is widely regarded as the franchise cornerstone and a top offensive threat. Robertson’s elite scoring and offensive production has helped re-shape the core. Robertson is also known for his stellar speed and shot making.
Stars’ Outlook
The Stars’ outlook appears to be optimistic entering the 2026-27 NHL season. The Stars enter 2026-27 with a strong roster and a clear path to the NHL playoffs. Robertson remains, veteran forward Tyler Seguin is expected to return, and a solid core is intact. The team’s success would likely hinge on health and cap space management.
Robertson’s so-called band-aid deal buys time for both parties to re-evaluate the future. His offensive firepower can help the team achieve success in the upcoming season and potential postseason. Previously, Dallas faced the Minnesota Wild in the First Round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs but lost in six games.
The team’s training camp will be held in the Comerica Center from Thursday, September 17 to Saturday, October 4. The training camp roster consists of 65 players, including 39 forwards, 20 defensemen, and six goaltenders. Moreover, the regular season will open on Friday, October 2 against the St. Louis Blues at the American Airlines Center.
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