Jason Robertson Headlines NHL Salary Arbitration Filings

Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson in action against Seattle Kraken defenseman Vince Dunn at Climate Pledge Arena. Photo by Jenn G.

Written By Gina Anton

Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson is one of 15 restricted free agents who have filed for salary arbitration, according to the NHL Players' Association.

The 26-year-old is coming off another impressive campaign, finishing the season with 45 goals and 51 assists for 96 points in 82 games. Other notable players filing include Philadelphia Flyers teammates Trevor Zegras and Jamie Drysdale, along with Montreal Canadiens forward Kirby Dach.

Salary arbitration is a process that helps eligible restricted free agents and their teams settle contract disputes if they can't agree on a new deal. An independent arbitrator hears arguments from both sides and determines the player's salary. However, most cases never reach that stage, as teams and players often agree to a contract beforehand.

While filing for arbitration can sound like a sign of conflict, it's often just another step in the business side of the NHL. In many cases, the filing simply creates a deadline that pushes negotiations forward, giving both the player and the team extra motivation to finalize a contract. As a result, arbitration hearings are uncommon, with most players signing new deals before ever appearing in front of an arbitrator.

Arbitration hearings are scheduled for July 20 through Aug. 1, but players remain free to sign a new contract with their current team at any point before their hearing.

Among the players who filed are Cole Perfetti (Winnipeg Jets), Cole Sillinger (Columbus Blue Jackets), Peyton Krebs (Buffalo Sabres), Connor McMichael (St. Louis Blues), and Braden Schneider (New York Rangers).