Jackson Blake's new deal raises questions for Dallas about Jason Robertson and Thomas Harley
Photo credit: The Dallas Morning news
The Carolina Hurricanes' eight-year, $45 million contract for Jackson Blake is drawing attention across the NHL, and it could influence how the Dallas Stars handle their own negotiations with Jason Robertson and Thomas Harley.
Blake, just 22 and coming off a breakout campaign, signed for a $5.625 million annual cap hit.
The contract, which was reported by Reuters, is viewed by many as a benchmark for teams balancing emerging stars against rising salary cap pressures.
For Dallas, the comparison is striking, because Robertson is expected to seek $12-13 million per year, while Harley's next deal will also carry a significant raise.
Jackson Blake's extension puts pressure on Dallas Stars to choose between extensions or trades
Robertson is entering the final season of his $7.75 million AAV contract and will be a restricted free agent next summer.
Harley, a 23-year-old defenseman who logged top-pair minutes, will also need a new contract at the same time.
As Dan Rosen noted on NHL.com:
«If the Stars feel they have to choose between Harley and Robertson on who to re-sign, it'd be hard to argue against them choosing the rising star defenseman ahead of the 35-goal forward.»
The Blake deal shows that teams can commit to youth without crippling their cap, but Dallas faces a tougher challenge given Robertson's price tag and their current payroll.
Could Blake's contract convince Dallas to keep both Robertson and Harley?
Some analysts believe Dallas could follow Carolina's model by structuring deals creatively, front-loading bonuses, or staggering term lengths to keep both players.
Others think a sign-and-trade involving Robertson could remain on the table, with Dallas maximizing value while Harley becomes the long-term anchor.
I believe Blake's deal gives Jim Nill a blueprint, but also a reminder that timing and structure will decide how the Stars manage their stars.
TRENDING NOW
