NHL Trade Rumor: Penguins, Rangers linked to $120M Stars scorer

Robertson is still one of the biggest names in the NHL trade rumour mill, and a contract extension remains up in the air. The team continues to insist that it wants to keep the franchise scorer, but the idea of a long-term extension has been a topic of conversation for other teams around the league.Things got worse when a proposed sign-and-trade deal with the Seattle Kraken fell apart when Robertson wouldn’t commit to a long-term deal elsewhere from Dallas. And speculation regarding potential landing spots will intensify as the salary arbitration deadline nears.Jason Robertson and Dallas Stars navigate NHL contract uncertaintyThe Dallas Stars are still working towards keeping Jason Robertson despite increasing NHL trade rumours surrounding the star winger. Dallas also has broader cap-management issues that could affect how aggressively it approaches its top restricted free agents this offseason.CategoryDetailsPlayerMavrik BourqueCurrent TeamDallas StarsPositionCenter / ForwardShootsRightHeight5 ft 11 in (180 cm)NationalityCanadianBirthplacePlessisvilleAgeBorn on January 8, 2002Draft InformationSelected 30th overall in the first round of the 2020 NHL Entry Draft by Dallas.Junior TeamDeveloped with the Shawinigan Cataractes in major junior hockey.Development PathProgressed through the Texas Stars, where he became one of the league's premier offensive players before earning a full-time NHL role.Contract StatusRestricted free agent and a potential offer sheet candidate during the 2026 NHL offseason.Main Concern for DallasThe Stars face pressure to retain Bourque while navigating an increasingly difficult salary-cap situation.Offer Sheet RiskModerate to High, rival teams are reportedly monitoring Dallas' cap constraints and may attempt an offer sheet.Teams Linked to Offer Sheet InterestCarolina Hurricanes, Seattle Kraken and Philadelphia Flyers are among the organizations reportedly exploring aggressive restricted free agent strategies.Why Rival Teams Are InterestedBourque combines offensive creativity, strong hockey intelligence and responsible two-way play, making him an attractive long-term investment.Playing StyleKnown for elite vision, playmaking ability, puck distribution and mature two-way awareness.Positional FlexibilityPrimarily a center but capable of contributing in multiple forward positions.Major AHL AchievementWon the Les Cunningham Award as the AHL's Most Valuable Player during the 2023-24 season.Scoring AchievementCaptured the John B. Sollenberger Trophy as the American Hockey League scoring champion in 2023-24.Why Offer Sheets Are Back in FocusRising salary caps and increased financial flexibility have encouraged teams to revisit the rarely used offer sheet strategy.Potential Outcome for DallasThe Stars could be forced to match a lucrative contract offer or accept draft pick compensation in return for losing Bourque.League-Wide ImpactBourque's situation has become one of the most closely watched restricted free agent storylines of the NHL offseason and could influence how teams approach offer sheets moving forward.Dallas Stars continue pursuing long-term agreementGeneral manager Jim Nill said discussions with Robertson’s reps are ongoing and the negotiation process is still in its early stages of the offseason. Dallas had looked at a sign-and-trade with the Seattle Kraken and the seventh overall pick earlier, but that deal never came to fruition.Reports indicated that Robertson turned down eight years for around $120 million, which suggests contract structure and future flexibility may be just as important as total value.Salary arbitration could become preferred outcomeIndustry insiders Elliotte Friedman and Nick Kypreos say salary arbitration is the most realistic short-term solution. An arbitration decision could put Robertson on a one-year contract worth anywhere from $9 million to $10 million for the 2026-27 season.That would allow the winger to move closer to unrestricted free agency while having more control over his long-term future.Pittsburgh Penguins and New York Rangers remain teams to watchThe story took another turn when the Pittsburgh Penguins acquired Robertson’s brother, Nick Robertson, from the Toronto Maple Leafs. While no direct link has been made, league watchers are still keeping an eye on the potential for future negotiations.Meanwhile, the New York Rangers could be another contender if Dallas ultimately decides the three-time 40-goal scorer is too good to pass up. But for now, the Stars are still looking for a trade that keeps their top offensive weapon in Texas.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.