Dallas Stars intend to sign Jason Robertson long-term, GM Jim Nill says

# What happened

Robertson agreed this summer to a one-year extension worth $12 million to avoid a salary arbitration hearing. That deal was intended as a stopgap to keep Robertson in Dallas while both sides continue long-term contract discussions.

General Manager Jim Nill told SiriusXM NHL Network Radio the team plans to restart negotiations in December and would be able to sign Robertson on January 1. Nill said the aim is to "get him signed," adding that Robertson "wants to be here" and the organization drafted and developed him.

# Contract context and timing

The one-year deal removes an immediate impasse and creates a clear negotiation window later in the season. Robertson cannot sign an extension until he becomes eligible on January 1, so the team expects talks to intensify in December ahead of that date.

The report notes projected cap-space dynamics: the Stars expect certain money to come off the books next season, and the piece references cap figures of $113 million for next season and $127.5 million by 2028–29 as part of the club's planning assumptions. Those projections frame Dallas's view that a long-term agreement will be more manageable once those changes are realized.

# What Jim Nill said

Nill described Robertson as "a big part of our franchise" and said Robertson "loves it here in Dallas." He characterized the earlier one-year deal as the result of patient negotiations and suggested arbitration provided a helpful deadline. Nill said the team will "start negotiations sometime in December" and hopes to complete a deal before Robertson reaches unrestricted free agency.

# Why the Stars view Robertson as a priority

The article frames Robertson as an important core player who came through the Stars' system. Dallas previously considered trading him during the offseason, with reported deals that did not materialize, but the presence of Robertson at training camp and his willingness to remain with the club are presented as evidence both sides prefer a long-term relationship.

# Practical implications for the team and Robertson

If the Stars reach a long-term deal, the club will avoid another offseason negotiation cycle for a top scorer and reduce future trade speculation. For Robertson, signing would lock in multi-year security and keep him in the market where he was developed.

If talks stall, arbitration or carryover conversations into next summer could revive trade exploration or public speculation. The team's declared timeline—negotiations in December and eligibility on January 1—establishes a clear calendar for when the situation will likely resolve.

# Bottom line

Dallas and Jason Robertson used a one-year contract to bridge immediate differences and set the stage for formal extension talks this season. GM Jim Nill publicly committed to pursuing a long-term deal, with the organization and player both described as motivated to complete an agreement once Robertson is eligible to sign on January 1.