The Dallas Stars have recently faced significant challenges, having been eliminated from the Western Conference Finals for the third consecutive year. Their departure from the playoffs came in five games against the Edmonton Oilers, the same team that secured their exit the previous year. Compounding the disappointment was the decision by head coach Pete DeBoer to pull goaltender Jake Oettinger early in the decisive game, prompting scrutiny regarding the coaching choices made during this crucial moment. As the Stars reflect on their exit, discussions are emerging regarding whether this might be the opportune time to trade superstar forward Jason Robertson, particularly with the 25-year-old approaching the final year of his contract next season. His current cap hit of $7.75 million remains quite manageable, especially as the Stars navigate a salary cap that has reached $95.5 million for the upcoming season, with reports indicating that they already have $90.5 million committed for next year. Given their early playoff exit, the Stars recognize the need for adjustments if they aim to advance past the Western Conference Final in the upcoming season.

One suggested trade partner for Robertson was the Anaheim Ducks, a potential match that presents several advantages. With ample cap space, the Ducks could accommodate Robertson's salary while also allowing room for an extension beyond next season. This aligns well with their trajectory, as Anaheim has shown signs of growth this past season, unexpectedly contending for a wild-card position. The addition of Robertson, who turns 26 in July, would bolster an offense that features young stars like Troy Terry, Trevor Zegras, and Leo Carlsson. Furthermore, the Ducks boast a wealth of young talent on defense, providing the Stars with the opportunity to address their defensive needs in a trade. Notable prospects such as Olen Zellweger, Jackson LaCombe, and Pavel Mintyukov could be integral in discussions due to the high demand for a right-handed defenseman by the Stars.

Another team, the Ottawa Senators, may not have been an initial consideration for Robertson's services, but recent insights suggest their interest is worth monitoring. With new ownership under Michael Andlauer and a return to postseason play achieved this season, the Senators are likely eager to maintain momentum amidst a competitive Atlantic Division. Incorporating Robertson into their lineup would add significant talent alongside established forwards like Brady Tkachuk and Tim Stützle. However, executing a trade with Ottawa comes with its challenges. The Senators lack depth on defense, complicating the potential to part with existing blueliners. Furthermore, their draft pick pool has been limited in recent years, creating hurdles in constructing a beneficial trade. Nonetheless, the prospect of adding Robertson to their offensive core could drastically enhance the Senators’ competitiveness moving forward.

While trading Robertson to another team within the Western Conference might seem unlikely for the Stars, the Calgary Flames could present a compelling destination. Acquiring Robertson would provide the Flames with a star forward capable of contributing significantly to their scoring efforts. A blend of Robertson with players such as Jonathan Huberdeau and Nazem Kadri could reenergize Calgary's offense. Additionally, the Flames possess valuable defensemen like MacKenzie Weegar and Rasmus Andersson, who could facilitate a trade without compromising the team’s competitive standing. The prospect of an Andersson-Robertson swap, involving two players who could be free agents next summer, presents an arrangement that might benefit both franchises, with the Stars gaining a high-caliber defenseman and the Flames reinforcing their scoring prowess.

The Buffalo Sabres, traditionally known for their deep pool of prospects, find themselves at a critical juncture regarding their roster composition. This time, however, it may be their existing players who could facilitate a significant trade for Robertson. The Sabres might look to move restricted free agents such as JJ Peterka and Bo Byram, giving them trade assets to pursue Robertson. Additionally, owning the No. 9 overall pick in the 2025 draft presents an opportunity for debate about whether to retain or trade this selection to acquire an elite talent like Robertson. Adding him to their roster would represent a substantial enhancement to their offensive capabilities, with the potential to return to playoff contention for the first time since 2011. If Byram is traded, the Stars would gain a promising young defenseman familiar with the Central Division's challenges, while Peterka's addition could offer a viable, cost-effective option for Dallas.

The Toronto Maple Leafs might be contemplating how to navigate a potential future without star forward Mitch Marner, who could be heading to free agency. In seeking a replacement, trading for Robertson could serve as a strategic maneuver to address this gap. However, the logistics of such a trade are complex, as the Maple Leafs currently lack top-tier prospects and do not possess a first-round draft pick for the next three years—major obstacles in negotiating a successful trade. Nevertheless, should circumstances align, acquiring Robertson could restore balance to Toronto's forward ranks and fuel discussions about the team's future direction.

On Long Island, there is a pressing need for the New York Islanders to improve their scoring capabilities. The arrival of new general manager Mathieu Darche presents an opportunity to revamp the team, and pursuing Jason Robertson may be an ideal first step. Trading restricted free agent Noah Dobson could be a pivotal move, offering a young, right-handed defenseman who could complement the Stars' defensive lineup alongside Miro Heiskanen. At the same time, Robertson would add another elite offensive player to the Islanders' ranks, joining Mathew Barzal and Bo Horvat. This move could establish a new standard of competitiveness for the Islanders under new management, offering fans a renewed sense of optimism.

Lastly, the Detroit Red Wings cannot be overlooked in the discussions surrounding a potential trade for Robertson. Facing a nine-year playoff drought, general manager Steve Yzerman is feeling the heat to transform the team's fortunes. The Red Wings have demonstrated promising performance for segments of the season yet require further improvements to truly contend. Securing Robertson could be a bold statement, indicating a willingness to gamble on significant changes for a team on the cusp of playoff contention. With offensive talents such as Dylan Larkin and Alex DeBrincat, the introduction of Robertson would undoubtedly elevate Detroit's scoring capabilities significantly.

The Carolina Hurricanes, making this list last, represent a particularly intriguing potential suitor for Robertson. Having sought to acquire a scoring winger this season, the Hurricanes were active in negotiating deals, ultimately bringing in Mikko Rantanen. However, the pursuit did not yield the desired outcomes, leaving them in need of an elite winger. The possibility of acquiring Robertson, coupled with the existing trade relationship with the Stars, could create a win-win scenario for both organizations. General manager Eric Tulsky may find that acquiring Robertson checks off many essential criteria for improving the team’s scoring depth as they prepare for the upcoming season.