In recent days, the situation surrounding the Dallas Stars has become quite tumultuous, particularly for their fan base. Not only were they eliminated from the Western Conference Final for the third consecutive season, but their exit came at the hands of the same opponent as the previous year—the Edmonton Oilers. Compounding the disappointment was the controversial decision to pull goaltender Jake Oettinger just minutes into the final game of the series, which drew scrutiny on head coach Pete DeBoer. As the Stars contemplate their future, the biggest question looming over the franchise is whether it is time to consider trading superstar winger Jason Robertson.

The notion of trading Robertson was notably raised by Jeff Marek in a recent entry on Daily Faceoff. With the 25-year-old entering the final year of his contract next season, this idea takes on added significance. Robertson's cap hit of $7.75 million is considered manageable, especially as the Stars brace for a salary cap that is set to rise to $95.5 million. However, the team has already committed $90.5 million for the upcoming season. Given their early playoff exit, adjustments must be made if the Stars aim to advance past the Western Conference Final in the future.

Among the teams mentioned as potential trade partners for Robertson is the Anaheim Ducks. This option appears favorable for several reasons, starting with the Ducks' ample cap space. Acquiring Robertson while also positioning themselves for a contract extension beyond next season is feasible. Furthermore, the Ducks are an emerging team. Their surge this past season, which included a surprise push for a wild-card spot, showcased the talent of their young core. Incorporating Robertson, who will turn 26 in July, would not only bolster their forward line but would also align him with rising stars like Troy Terry, Trevor Zegras, and Leo Carlsson.

The Ducks possess a wealth of young talent, particularly on defense, which could be appealing to the Stars as they look to strengthen their blue line. The organization has several potential trade candidates, including Olen Zellweger, Jackson LaCombe, Pavel Mintyukov, Stian Solberg, and Noah Warren. Thus, a trade involving Robertson could address key needs for both franchises, particularly if the Stars seek a right-handed defenseman.

Another team that Marek highlighted as a possible contender for Robertson is the Ottawa Senators. With new ownership under Michael Andlauer, the Senators made their return to the postseason this year and will likely seek to build on that momentum. General Manager Steve Staios is under pressure to remain competitive, particularly within a highly contested Atlantic Division that includes strong rivals like Tampa Bay, Florida, and Toronto. The addition of Robertson to a forward group already featuring Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, Dylan Cozens, and Drake Batherson would significantly enhance their offensive capabilities.

However, executing a trade with the Senators could prove complicated due to their limited defensive depth and scarcity of draft picks, having only recently started to regain their selections after earlier trades. Nonetheless, securing a player of Robertson's quality would be a significant coup for Ottawa, strengthening their offensive lineup considerably.

On the other hand, the Calgary Flames could potentially present an intriguing opportunity for a Robertson trade. Acquiring Robertson would provide Calgary with a star talent capable of scoring and creating plays, complementing established players like Jonathan Huberdeau, Nazem Kadri, and Matt Coronato. With defensemen such as MacKenzie Weegar and Rasmus Andersson available for trade, the Flames would have the necessary pieces to facilitate a deal that serves both teams' interests.

An Andersson-Robertson trade scenario could involve two players likely headed for free agency next summer, appealing to both franchises with immediate needs. The Flames would secure an elite forward, while the Stars could significantly bolster their defense, all while gaining over $3 million in salary cap flexibility.

The Buffalo Sabres might also emerge as a leading candidate for a trade involving Robertson. In previous years, the Sabres' deep prospect pool and draft pick wealth were seen as significant assets for potential trades. However, with questions emerging about certain roster players, including restricted free agents such as JJ Peterka and defenseman Bo Byram, a different approach may be required. The Sabres also possess the No. 9 pick in the 2025 draft, an asset that could be pivotal in negotiations.

Acquiring Robertson would mean adding a young, elite scorer who excels in both offense and defense, potentially revitalizing Buffalo’s efforts to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2011. If they were to trade Byram, the Stars would gain a young, developing defenseman with a firm understanding of the Central Division's challenges. Meanwhile, if they chose to move Peterka, they would provide Dallas with a younger, cost-effective forward option.

In the event that the Toronto Maple Leafs lose forward Mitch Marner in free agency, they will face an urgent need to fill a significant gap in their roster. While acquiring Robertson could be viewed as a replacement for Marner, this scenario hinges on the Maple Leafs' ability to re-sign John Tavares at a favorable rate. If Toronto can navigate these complexities, acquiring Robertson could create an intriguing conversation in hockey circles regarding their roster improvement.

Yet, the feasibility of such a trade raises challenges. The Maple Leafs lack top-tier prospects and do not hold a first-round pick for the next three years—both substantial hurdles to clear in negotiations. Still, trade possibilities are always evolving in the NHL.

Another team to consider is the New York Islanders, now under new management with General Manager Mathieu Darche at the helm. One of the significant challenges facing the Islanders is their perceived lack of scoring talent. Adding Jason Robertson to their lineup could mark a bold step for Darche as he seeks to make an impact. A pivotal trade involving restricted free agent defenseman Noah Dobson could facilitate this move, as the 25-year-old defenseman is due for a substantial raise.

The combination of Robertson joining Mathew Barzal and Bo Horvat could transform the Islanders' offensive lineup. Moreover, if the Islanders manage to create additional cap flexibility by parting ways with players like Pierre Engvall and/or Scott Mayfield, they could extend Robertson upon his arrival.

Lastly, the Detroit Red Wings find themselves in a pressing situation, having endured a nine-year playoff drought. General Manager Steve Yzerman faces mounting pressure to turn the franchise around. Despite showing promise for significant portions of the past season, the Red Wings still seek that transformational move that could signify a shift towards playoff contention. Bringing in a player of Robertson's caliber could display a commitment to immediate improvement.

The Red Wings have valuable prospects and draft picks at their disposal, creating an enticing offer for a player of Robertson's talent. Adding him to a forward group alongside Dylan Larkin, Alex DeBrincat, and Lucas Raymond would elevate the team’s offensive capabilities markedly.

The Carolina Hurricanes warrant mention for their intriguing position in this conversation. Having pursued a scoring winger to enhance their roster recently, the Hurricanes remain in search of an elite addition. After their earlier attempts to trade for Mikko Rantanen fell short, acquiring Robertson could represent a logical strategic pivot.

With an established trade relationship with the Stars and a successful acquisition of Rantanen previously, trading for Robertson could allow the Hurricanes to find the scoring prowess they seek. As the situation evolves, it appears the summer may bring significant action, particularly for Carolina General Manager Eric Tulsky as he considers impactful roster adjustments.