NHL Rumors: Blackhawks Want Kane, Robertson’s Plan, Schaefer Extension – The Hockey Writers – NHL Rumors

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, the Chicago Blackhawks are making their stance crystal clear on Patrick Kane. Meanwhile, the Dallas Stars take a short-term approach with Jason Robertson. Finally, one of the NHL’s rising young stars is downplaying the importance of massive contracts in today’s market.

Blackhawks Leave Door Wide Open for Patrick Kane

The Chicago Blackhawks aren’t being shy about their interest in a reunion with Patrick Kane. As the team keeps making moves, general manager Kyle Davidson spoke this week and made it clear the organization would welcome Kane back with open arms as he navigates free agency.

“Patrick is someone that our organization, myself, have had a relationship for a long time. I don’t necessarily think it’s right for me to comment on the process he’s going to be running this offseason. A guy like Kaner has done pretty much everything there is to do in our game. He’s inspired every young player playing hockey today with what he’s accomplished, and he’s earned the right to take his time and make a decision. We see him very often. He trains at our practice facility in the offseason. We’ll await his decision, but he knows our door is always open. He’s a Blackhawk at heart for life, even if he’s not wearing our jersey. We’ve got a great deal of reverence, respect, and love for Patrick Kane, so we’ll leave him to that decision and we’ll see where he ends up when that day comes.”

Kane is reportedly deciding between Chicago and the Buffalo Sabres, setting up a choice between a hometown opportunity and a return to the franchise where he built his Hall of Fame legacy.

Stars Take Short-Term Route with Jason Robertson

The Dallas Stars and Jason Robertson have agreed on a short-term signing. The star forward inked a one-year, $12 million contract on Tuesday, giving both sides another season to figure out a more long-term solution.

The deal gives Robertson immediate elite-level money while also walking him to unrestricted free agency if he likes. While this sounds problematic for Dallas, the contract buys time to sort out a more complicated financial picture. Without any trade protection in the deal, Robertson could become a trade candidate if extension talks stall during the season.

The agreement gives Robertson the leverage, and it shows he’s betting on himself. Another big season could significantly increase his AAV, putting even more pressure on the Stars to find a long-term solution.

The team is currently projected to be over the salary cap, meaning additional roster moves will be required before the season begins. But the bigger question is what comes next. This contract structure keeps all options on the table. Robertson can negotiate an extension as early as January 1, but if progress isn’t made, the Stars may have to consider bigger decisions, including a potential trade.

Rising Star Schaefer Not Focused on Payday

As massive contracts continue to dominate NHL headlines, prospect Matthew Schaefer is taking a different approach. When asked about his future deal in light of recent blockbuster extensions for players like Connor Bedard and Leo Carlsson, Schaefer made it clear money isn’t his primary concern.

“I’ll let my agent think about that. I don’t need to think about that, I’m still a kid, I’m still a year away from any of that,” Schaefer said.

He added:

“I love Long Island; we have something so special going on there. I don’t care about the money. I just want to play the game of hockey, and that’s what I love. If you’re just playing hockey and having fun, that’s all that matters, honestly, and being with the right people, the right coaches, the right management. At the end of the day, it’s family and we want to create something super special on Long Island and we want to win the Stanley Cup. You just want to win a Cup and go as far as you can with the team.”

Instead, the young defenseman appears focused on development and long-term success. He’ll definitely get paid, but his comments stand out in today’s market.