Jason Robertson vs. Roope Hintz NHL contract comparison: Breaking down the Stars’ biggest deals

The Dallas Stars became contenders because of their top-end forwards, Jason Robertson and Roope Hintz, who both received large contract extensions that are among the largest in franchise history. Robertson signed a four-year contract worth $31 million, averaging $7.75 million per year. Hintz received an eight-year, $67.6 million extension that averages $8.45 million annually. As Robertson approaches the end of his current contract and works to negotiate a new contract extension, these contracts will no doubt be compared in terms of value and structure.Jason Robertson's current four-year, $31 million contract (with an AAV of $7.75 million through the end of the 2023-24 season) was signed back in October 2022. The shorter term of this bridge contract has enabled Robertson to demonstrate his elite scoring potential as a young winger who had two prior breakout seasons and has become one of the top producers in the NHL. In addition, this deal gives Robertson future leverage for a larger salary based on continued performance and success on the ice.In comparison, Roope Hintz's eight-year extension, worth $67.6 million and signed in November 2022, has an AAV of $8.45 million and runs through the end of the 2030-31 season. The long-term commitment to Hintz reflects confidence in his two-way center position and his historical ability to produce points while being a dependable two-way player. The long-term structure also provides the Stars with cost certainty on a key core player entering the prime of his career who has proven to be impactful in the playoffs.Jason Robertson has changed agents during active negotiations with the Dallas Stars on a new contract, indicating he intends to significantly increase his salary in the next few months. Reports suggest he is seeking an average annual value of more than $12 million, which would put him above Hintz’s current cap hit and dramatically reshape the Dallas salary cap. If this new deal gets done, Robertson may become the highest-paid player on the roster, and it will test the Dallas organization’s ability to retain its top players as it tries to keep its core together.The synergy and success achieved through the on-ice chemistry between Robertson and Hintz continue to source team success; thus, the resolution of this issue, whether that is an agreed-upon contract or Robertson not re-signing with the team, would have a positive impact on the long-term efforts of the league’s top contenders. Ultimately, resolving this situation will affect future cap management issues for other rising stars on the Dallas roster.