Thomas Harley's next contract could test the Dallas Stars' salary cap as debate grows over whether his deal wi

The Dallas Stars are entering an important crossroads with Thomas Harley's next contract, as speculation continues to grow over whether his deal could challenge or even surpass Miro Heiskanen's $8.45 million AAV.

On the DLLS Stars Podcast, analysts dug into Harley's rising value and how Dallas can manage its payroll with several cornerstone players due for major commitments. The conversation has sparked plenty of debate about just how far the front office will go to secure Harley long-term.

Thomas Harley's contract talks are sparking comparisons with Miro Heiskanen's deal

The hosts pointed out that Heiskanen's contract now looks like a bargain when compared to other defensemen around the league.

"Miro is at 8.45 million for four more seasons. It looks like a real nice deal, especially when you look at Bouchard for a 10.5 AAV."

That led to the central dilemma facing Dallas:

"Do you give Harley more than Miro? Or do you take the approach you did with Robertson and Rantanen and make sure Heiskanen stays the highest-paid defenseman on the team?"

Currently, Harley sits on a $4 million salary as a restricted free agent, giving the Stars some time before unrestricted free agency becomes a factor. Still, the panel suggested a shorter-term bridge deal could start in the $6.7 million range.

"I think Harley will start with 6.7 million. Maybe it's only a 3-4 year deal. It won't be easy."

The conversation also tied Harley's situation to Jason Robertson's upcoming extension.

"If Robertson comes in at 11.5, that's a 3.75 million jump from his current deal. That would leave less than 5 million for Harley if the cap only rises by 8.5."

Fans can hear the full breakdown on the show's July 25 episode via DLLS Stars, with highlights also posted on X.

I think Dallas will be forced to make tough calls on both term and structure, because if Harley's price tag climbs into elite territory, it could reshape how the Stars build around their defensive core.