The Rangers have set their sights on Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson as a potential cornerstone piece in their ongoing retool. General manager Chris Drury is actively scouring NHL rosters for young talent that fits his stated priorities of tenacity, skill, and speed. Robertson checks every box as the organization looks to transition away from aging veterans toward players who can anchor the lineup for years to come. He represents the exact profile Drury outlined in his January 16 letter to Rangers fans.
Jason Robertson has everything the New York Rangers need to replace Artemi Panarin
The 26-year-old winger possesses elite offensive ability while still being young enough to build around for the next decade. His contract situation makes him an intriguing target despite Dallas showing no public willingness to move him before contending for another Stanley Cup.The Rangers face a delicate balance between maintaining competitiveness and getting younger across the roster. Adding the Stars’ winger would solve that problem immediately, as his offensive production would fit right in at Panarin’s spot in New York’s top six.The Russian star has already been told by Drury that he will not be a part of the Rangers starting next season. So, with New York losing their top forward option and Robertson having a new agent in the form of Pat Brisson, many assume he would keep his options open once the season ends.The agent change does not guarantee anything regarding his future in Dallas, but it signals that contract negotiations are heating up ahead of his restricted free agency this summer. The winger is completing a four-year deal worth $7.75 million annually. He has tallied 30 goals through 52 games this season, ranking third in the NHL at the time the Rangers began circulating his name as a trade target. His 60 points place him on pace to exceed 90 for the campaign.Robertson posted 109 points during the 2022-23 season and has consistently produced at above a point-per-game rate throughout his career. The offensive ceiling he brings is higher than that of any other player the Rangers are reportedly pursuing. His price tag will be substantial whether the Stars sign him or trade him to another organization. A Robertson trade likely makes the most sense this summer when he becomes a restricted free agent rather than at the March 6 trade deadline. Dallas maintains team control and would prefer to keep him as the Stars remain Stanley Cup contenders. The Rangers would need to put together a package centered on young assets and draft picks to pry him away. The Rangers sit at 21-22-6 for 48 points and are battling for a playoff spot in a crowded Eastern Conference. Drury has already secured two first-round picks in the 2026 draft and is looking to stockpile more assets as he reshapes the roster. Landing Robertson would require significant capital but would give the organization a legitimate top-line winger to build around for the remainder of the decade.
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