The Dallas Stars are staring at one of their biggest offseason questions, and it revolves around Jason Robertson.
According to NHL insider Nick Kypreos, Robertson's camp could seek a contract in the $12 million per year range, the same number Mikko Rantanen recently secured on his new deal.
It's a figure that underscores Robertson's value as one of the league's premier wingers, but it also places the Stars in a complicated cap situation.
Dallas has already committed major money to veterans and young talent, and meeting Robertson's demand may mean painful choices elsewhere.
Robertson's numbers make the case clear. He posted 44 goals and 92 points last season despite missing time with minor injuries, and his power-play contributions remain elite.
For a player who has quickly become the centerpiece of the Stars' offense, the argument for paying him among the NHL's top forwards is strong.
As YardBarker outlined, Rantanen's recent deal sets the market, and Robertson's camp is expected to use that benchmark. The challenge for Dallas is fitting such a contract under the salary cap while also planning for the future.
Matt Duchene, Miro Heiskanen, and Tyler Seguin already take up significant cap space, and breakout youngsters like Wyatt Johnston will soon need new deals.
If Robertson lands his $12 million payday, Dallas could be forced to move a veteran contract or risk trimming depth on defense and in the bottom six.
Personally, I believe Robertson is worth every dollar, but paying him could come at the cost of the Stars' flexibility.
Balancing a superstar's salary against roster depth is never easy, and this negotiation might end up defining Dallas's entire offseason.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!