Stars Make Decision on Robertson, Bourque
Dallas solidified their roster depth by issuing qualifying offers to key restricted free agents, retaining control over top scorers while letting several notable AHL contributors head to market.
The Dallas Stars dropped some important news regarding Jason Robertson at the last minute Monday afternoon.
The Stars and General Manager Jim Nill had to issue any qualifying offers by 4 p.m. Monday to avoid restricted free agents from becoming unrestricted on the first day of free agency. News from around the league dropped throughout the day on who would become available later in the week, but the Stars waited until very near the deadline to make an announcement.
Dallas Stars defenseman Thomas Harley (55) and defenseman Nils Lundkvist (5) and left wing Jason Robertson (21) and right wing Mikko Rantanen (96) and center Mavrik Bourque (22) celebrates a goal scored by Robertson during the game between the Stars and the Wild in game two of the first round of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn ImagesRobertson was extended an offer and will remain an RFA, meaning the Stars still control what happens with the talented winger amidst his journey to signing a new contract. Robertson is free to sign in Dallas or get traded to another team willing to give him the money he wants, as long as Robertson gives the okay that he will sign the deal. It was reported that Robertson refused a deal with both the Seattle Kraken and St. Louis Blues, reportedly wanting to limit his options to cup contenders.
While all the buzz so far has been about Robertson, another top six forward from last season also needed to receive a qualifying offer to avoid the Stars cratering their top two lines. Mavrik Borque was also qualified, and the two sides will surely work towards a new contract soon after the logistics behind whether or not Robertson signs get worked out.
One final playoff contributor was extended a qualifying offer in Arttu Hyry. He spent most of the year playing for Texas in the AHL, but cemented a spot in the lineup by the time playoffs rolled around with his stellar defensive play and face-off prowess.
Among those not given a qualifying offer were some big name AHL contributors like goaltender Remi Poirier, forward Antonio Stranges and defenseman Vladislav Kolyachonok. Kolyachonok was traded to Dallas from Pittsburgh in exchange for Matt Dumba and played well in a minor NHL role. The Stars lost him to Boston on a waiver claim mid-season, but were able to claim him back after Boston also waived him.
Rounding out the list of non-qualifiers is goaltender Benjamin Kraws and forwards Francesco Arcuri, Kyle McDonald, Samu Tuomaala and Chase Wheatcroft.
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