The Dallas Stars have resolved their contract negotiations with forward Jason Robertson, who will remain with the team for the upcoming season. The discussions, which unfolded publicly over several months, attracted notable attention due to reports of a stalemate on salary expectations and the team’s exploration of multiple trade options.

During the negotiations, the Stars reportedly traded Mavrik Bourque and Ilya Lyubushkin to the Nashville Predators, moves influenced in part by financial constraints related to Robertson’s anticipated salary increase. The team also sought to trade Robertson to the Seattle Kraken, offering an eight-year contract reportedly worth at least $15 million annually, a deal the player declined. Additionally, the Stars explored a potential trade sending Thomas Harley to the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for Norris Trophy winner Zach Werenski.

These maneuvers, coupled with Robertson’s filing for salary arbitration while aiming to become the highest-paid player in franchise history, raised concerns about possible disruptions within the team’s locker room. However, Stars general manager Jim Nill downplayed these concerns, stating he expects no lingering issues when training camp opens in September.

Nill noted that players generally understand the dynamics of contract negotiations, empathizing with their teammates’ experiences. “Players have been talking to Jason. It’s not a situation coming into the dressing room. We don’t have to worry about that,” he said.

Amid speculation of strained relationships stemming from the contract saga, Robertson publicly addressed rumors of tension between himself, the team, and his teammates. “Not everything on the Internet is real. People do things to try to grab attention or whatnot,” Robertson said, emphasizing that the opinions of those close to him—the organization, his agency, and friends—are what matter most. He added that his teammates respect his privacy and understand the business nature of contract negotiations, particularly during the offseason.

While both Robertson and the Stars present an image of cohesion heading into the new season, the true impact of the contentious negotiations will likely be revealed once on-ice play begins in October.