The Dallas Stars remain in the middle of major NHL trade speculation as rumors linking Jason Robertson to the Los Angeles Kings continue to gain traction.
Even though Robertson has become one of the league's most reliable scorers, his upcoming contract negotiations have put Dallas in a difficult spot.
Brandon Croce of Rink Royalty explained why the Kings would jump at this chance, writing that:
"The Los Angeles Kings could completely change their offseason outlook with this one trade."
You can read the full piece on Rink Royalty.
The NHL salary cap has forced even top contenders into tough choices, and Dallas is no different.
Robertson is entering the final year of his $7.75 million AAV contract, and his next deal is expected to land around $12 to $13 million per year.
If the Stars and Robertson cannot agree on those terms, exploring a trade becomes a way to avoid losing leverage later.
A move to Los Angeles would give Dallas future flexibility and a return built around draft picks and prospects, even if replacing Robertson's impact would be impossible in the short term.
Kings GM Ken Holland has been searching for a defining move after adding veterans like Corey Perry and Joel Armia.
Robertson, a Southern California native with three straight 80-point seasons, would give LA the scoring punch they lack, while Dallas could retool quickly with assets that might be flipped for defensive help.
As Croce pointed out on Rink Royalty, LA would have to clear space to also handle contracts for Adrian Kempe and Alex Laferriere, but for Robertson, they might stretch to make it work.
I think if Dallas cannot meet Robertson's number, moving him before camp might be their safest play.
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