This specific Stars player is causing a 'financial roadblock' that could result in Jason Robetson's trade

The Dallas Stars could face a big decision as Jason Robertson's contract talks and another key player's next deal create money problems that might lead to trade rumors

The Dallas Stars' offseason is quiet on the ice, but Jason Robertson's name has been anything but absent from the NHL rumor mill, with insiders pointing to potential financial hurdles that could force the team's hand.

In a recent discussion highlighted by NHL.com, the question was raised about Robertson's likelihood of leaving before the season begins.

Here was Dan Rosen's answer:

"Probably 50/50 at this point because it really depends on if the Stars and Robertson can or even want to try to get a new deal done sooner rather than later."

The 26-year-old forward, who scored 35 goals last season and has 151 goals over the past four years (ranking 14th in the NHL during that stretch), carries a $7.75 million cap hit heading into the final year of his contract.

His restricted free agent status after this season means his next deal could be massive, and that's where the complications begin.

Jason Robertson's future hangs on Dallas balancing cap space with key players like Thomas Harley

While the Stars can fit Robertson under the current cap, the challenge grows when factoring in defenseman Thomas Harley, another restricted free agent after this season. Rosen added:

"If the Stars feel they have to choose between Harley and Robertson on who to re-sign, it'd be hard to argue against them choosing the rising star defenseman ahead of the 35-goal forward."

The discussion also compared Robertson's scenario to Mitch Marner's sign-and-trade with Vegas, suggesting Dallas could maximize value if they let a trade partner negotiate a contract before finalizing any deal.

For more insight, check out The Hockey News breakdown on Robertson's trade rumors.

The Stars could face a big decision as Robertson's contract talks and Harley's next deal create money problems, and I think Jim Nill might be forced to trade him.