Jason Robertson is at the center of an NHL contract crunch for the Dallas Stars. After posting 45 goals and 96 points in 82 games this season, Robertson is set to become a restricted free agent. Reports indicate Dallas general manager Jim Nill is considering contract options while also managing the team’s salary-cap situation, with Nill described as having a “salary red line” he does not want to cross. NDTV reports that the two sides are reportedly “quite a ways apart,” suggesting negotiations have not yet closed the gap on terms. In that context, Robertson is also described as appearing on the NHL trade board, reflecting the possibility that Dallas could explore trade scenarios if an agreement remains out of reach. The situation centers on how the Stars approach the restricted free-agent process, and whether they can reach terms that stay within their stated financial limits, or instead pursue an alternative path such as a trade.