SerpApi.Org
Jason Robertson’s new contract with the Dallas Stars led to immediate speculation about his long-term NHL future. It also prompted Edmonton Oilers fans to dream about adding another elite scorer beside Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Robertson signed a one-year, $12 million contract on Tuesday, avoiding salary arbitration. The 27-year-old finished last season with 96 points, including 45 goals, while adding eight playoff points in six games.
MORE: David Staples says Oilers need Evander Kane to neutralize NHL ‘apex predators’
The discussion about Robertson landing in Edmonton started after Bleed Oil Blue posted on X following his deal.
“The Stars signed Jason Robertson to a one-year deal… Does that mean the Oilers could have a shot at signing him as a free agent next summer? 👀 Never say never. 😏”
Many fans quickly dismissed the idea.
A fan wrote, “No shot. He will sign for 7 years in January. Worry more about McDavid leaving as your GM has failed to build around him.”
Another fan shared a similar view, writing, “Nah, he’ll sign an extension for 8yrs when they have more cap next season.”
A third fan wrote, “Can’t afford him. Our payroll would be way to top end heavy.”
Others believed Robertson would leave Dallas only for another American market.
A fan said, “IF Robertson leaves, (big if), he’s not going to Canada. Vegas, Pittsburgh, or a team in the met would be odds on.”
One fan added a blunt response, writing, “No, because he will want to sign with a good team.”
A sixth fan reacted, saying, “Better yet, trade for him at the deadline at 50% retained. All honesty though, this is probably a pseudo Bridge deal and in January he likely signs a 15,000,000 to 18,000,00 per 7 years deal with Dallas.”
Oilers won’t mind, but reality tells another story
Since 2020-21, Robertson has led Dallas in goals, assists, points, power-play goals, and power-play points. He has produced 490 career points in 456 regular-season games.
Stars general manager Jim Nill made the organization’s position clear after completing the deal.
“Jason has been a cornerstone of our franchise since he was drafted in 2017,” Nill said. “… We’re excited for what this season will bring for both Jason and the team.”
Meanwhile, Edmonton enters the season after significant changes. Mike Babcock replaced Kris Knoblauch behind the bench. Stan Bowman also reshaped the roster while creating additional salary-cap flexibility.
Robertson would fit almost any contender. His scoring ability and playmaking would complement Edmonton’s superstar core immediately.
Still, the contract structure does not guarantee he reaches free agency. Dallas gains financial flexibility next summer and remains well-positioned to negotiate a long-term extension.
MORE: NHL analyst makes surprising Gavin McKenna vs. Auston Matthews prediction
The speculation is understandable. However, fan reactions reflect the more realistic outlook. Robertson staying in Dallas remains the most likely outcome unless contract talks unexpectedly break down.
