After breakthrough season, Jason Robertson needs himself a new contract

Jason Robertson

Performance evaluation

Robertson took a huge step in 2021-22, going from a rookie of the year finalist to a legitimate goal scorer and quite possibly one of the best wingers in the NHL.
He tallied 41 goals, tied for the most in a single season by a Stars player since Mike Modano tallied 50 in 1993-94 (Jamie Benn also had 41 in 2015-16). Robertson also led the team in points per game (1.07), plus-minus (plus-16), shots on goal (220) and game-winning goals (11). His 11 game winners ranked tied for the NHL lead and also tied the franchise record for a single season.
As much as he established a great base in his rookie season (17 goals, 28 assists, 45 points in 54 games), he really had a breakthrough campaign in 2021-22.

Expectations for 2022-23

Robertson needs to get a new contract signed, so that's key to him getting off to a good start and carrying the momentum from last season. The two sides are negotiating, and the key will be whether Robertson wants a bridge-type of contract (two to three years) or a max eight-year deal like Miro Heiskanen signed last season.
It'll be interesting to see how the negotiations play out, and how Robertson handles the added pressure of being one of the team's highest paid players. He has adjusted to every challenge so far in his career, so the expectation is he'll be fine.

The guess is the new coaching staff will continue to play Robertson with Roope Hintz and Joe Pavelski on the top line, as that trio has fantastic chemistry. One of the big reasons is because Robertson works so hard and seems to read well off Pavelski. If the chemistry continues this season for that line, Robertson should again be one of the team's leading goal scorers.
His playoff performance was good last season (one goal, three assists and four points in seven games) as he looked like he had to adapt to the intensity of the game early on, but that also is an area where experience could make a big difference.
This story was not subject to the approval of the National Hockey League or Dallas Stars Hockey Club.
Mike Heikais a Senior Staff Writer for DallasStars.com and has covered the Stars since 1994. Follow him on Twitter @MikeHeika.

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