Western Conference Club Continues to Monitor Stars Forward Jason Robertson
The NHL offseason has delivered no shortage of surprises. Between an eventful draft, blockbuster trades, and an active free agency period, the league remains full of uncertainty—and there could still be more major moves ahead.
One storyline to watch is the Anaheim Ducks’ decision on whether to match the offer sheet signed by Leo Carlsson, with the deadline rapidly approaching. Another is the uncertain future of Dallas Stars standout Jason Robertson. As those situations unfold, they may soon intersect.
Ducks Remain a Team to Watch in Robertson Sweepstakes
Earlier this offseason, many believed Robertson could become an offer-sheet target. However, after filing for salary arbitration, the star winger is no longer eligible to sign one. If he and the Stars fail to agree on a long-term extension, he is expected to play next season on a one-year contract before becoming eligible for unrestricted free agency.
That scenario has fueled ongoing speculation about Robertson’s future in Dallas. If the Stars believe a long-term agreement isn’t within reach, moving the talented winger for a significant return could become an option.
According to NHL insider Jeff Marek on The Sheet, Anaheim remains one of the teams that has consistently been connected to Robertson and could still have genuine interest.
It’s easy to understand why. Robertson is coming off another outstanding campaign after recording 45 goals and 96 points in all 82 regular-season games. Although there’s no certainty he would commit to the Ducks beyond his next contract, Anaheim could view the opportunity as worth pursuing if Dallas becomes open to dealing him.
Could Robertson Become Anaheim’s Contingency Plan?
Much of Anaheim’s offseason strategy hinges on its decision regarding Carlsson.
If the Ducks choose to match the reported $18 million average annual value offer sheet from the Philadelphia Flyers, adding Robertson would likely be financially unrealistic, especially with future commitments to young stars like Cutter Gauthier also on the horizon.
However, if Anaheim declines to match, the franchise would gain substantial salary-cap flexibility along with additional first-round draft assets, giving general manager Pat Verbeek multiple avenues to reshape the roster.
While Robertson is a winger rather than a center, he could become a cornerstone addition if the Ducks pivot away from Carlsson. Anaheim could then explore separate trade options to address its need down the middle—potentially pursuing a young center such as Shane Wright or another long-term solution—while using its draft capital to remain aggressive.
Everything ultimately depends on the Carlsson decision, which is expected soon. But should Anaheim allow its young center to depart, don’t be surprised if the Ducks quickly turn their attention back to Robertson as one of their top offseason targets.
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