Stars Forward Jason Robertson Focused on Season Despite Olympic Snub
Despite being left off the United States roster for the 2026 olympic Winter Games in Milano Cortina, Jason Robertson remains committed to a strong season with the Dallas stars. The 26-year-old forward expressed disappointment with the decision, marking the second consecutive year he has been overlooked for international competition, having also been excluded from the U.S. team for the 4 Nations Face-Off in February.
Robertson addressed the situation after practice on Saturday, stating, “I thought that this year was different than last year. Obviously last year I didn’t think I was good enough. Now I think I [am] and it’s their choice, their decision and that’s it.” This sentiment reflects a growing confidence in his game, contrasted with his self-assessment from the previous year.
Currently, Robertson is enjoying a highly productive season, boasting 48 points – comprised of 24 goals and 24 assists – in just 41 games. He currently ranks second in team scoring, trailing only Mikko Rantanen of Finland, who will be competing in the Olympics with 56 points (16 goals, 40 assists) in 40 games.Robertson leads all United States-born players in NHL scoring this season,sitting tied for eighth overall and tied for fourth in the league with 24 goals. Last season, he recorded an extraordinary 80 points (35 goals, 45 assists) across 82 games, further solidifying his position as a premier offensive talent.
“Obviously it hurts your ego,” Robertson acknowledged, “but I’m not going to change the way I play and [am] happy to keep doing what I’m doing. I think I just strive to be the best whenever I can be and it so happened this year was the Olympic year.I mean, that’s not going to stop me from doing that the rest of the season.”
Robertson indicated he is unsure if he has been placed on the team’s standby list,potentially available for selection in the event of player injuries.
The decision to exclude Robertson surprised Stars coach Glen Gulutzan, who expressed strong support for his player. “He’s our player and our guy and your hoping for him,” Gulutzan said.”Ther’s not one coach of the 32 of us who doesn’t think their guy should be on the team. I heard the comments in Chicago just the other night about Connor bedard not making canada’s roster and I think the same thing [applies to Robertson].I would’ve loved to have seen him on it. He’s been so good for us.”
Dallas goaltender Jake Oettinger,who will represent the U.S.at the Olympics, echoed Gulutzan’s sentiments, praising Robertson’s skill set. “He’s the most pure goal-scorer I’ve ever played with,” Oettinger stated. “His hockey IQ is off the charts. He drives me nuts in practice but that shows you,because he’s putting a lot by me. It’s fun battling him because he makes me better, too. Obviously, I wish he was going over there, but [it’s] not my decision and he’s a hell of a player, and I don’t think that’s going to change anything for him. He’s going to continue to dominate and show he’s one of the best in the world.”
Despite the disappointment, Robertson’s focus remains firmly on continuing his remarkable play and driving the Stars toward success
