Austin Konenski
Jason Robertson is starting to circulate in early trade chatter as the 2026 NHL offseason approaches, and for good reason. When a top-tier winger with his scoring ability potentially becomes available, it immediately reshapes the market and forces contenders to take notice.
Not every team can realistically land Robertson, but a few stand out as logical fits based on cap space, roster needs, and competitive timelines. Here are five destinations that actually make sense if the Dallas Stars decide to seriously explore the idea of trading Robertson this offseason!
Chicago Blackhawks
The Chicago Blackhawks would be a great landing spot for Robertson. Chicago has the most cap space in the NHL to sign both Robertson and rising star Connor Bedard to long-term contract extensions. The Blackhawks have the assets to give Dallas and the cap space to inherit the big contract; however, it would come down to whether Robertson wants to play in Chicago.
Carolina Hurricanes
The Carolina Hurricanes are a Stanley Cup-tier organization in 2026, and Robertson would take them to an even higher level. Carolina might not have the cap space of other organizations, but it has been pushing for star players in the past. Robertson can’t fully control his next location as a restricted free agent, but he’d be a great addition to the top six with the Hurricanes.
New York Rangers
The New York Rangers are retooling, and Robertson would be a fantastic way to kick it off this summer. With plenty of cap space, New York will be in the market for a big-game player, and the 26-year-old forward’s 40-plus goals would count. If Dallas decides that Robertson won’t fit in long-term, expect the Rangers to be in the mix.
Pittsburgh Penguins
The Pittsburgh Penguins have plenty of cap space coming off a Stanley Cup Playoff run, and Robertson would be an excellent acquisition. Pittsburgh has an aging roster with Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, so Robertson would help the Penguins chase a Stanley Cup while becoming the future. There would be a lot of pressure to become the “guy” after Crosby, but Robertson would fit the mold.
Detroit Red Wings
The Detroit Red Wings need to take a big swing, and Robertson would be the perfect answer. Detroit general manager Steve Yzerman admitted that better players are needed to make the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and he has the cap space to make it happen. The Red Wings seem primed to land a star, and Jason Robertson would be among the best options during the NHL offseason.
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