Dallas Stars winger Jason Robertson, a dedicated player known for his work ethic, participated in an optional practice alongside backup goalie Casey DeSmith. Despite a slow start to the season due to foot surgery, Robertson has excelled, ranking first in the NHL with 23 goals since January 1. He enjoys helping goalies during practice and uses the time to refine his skills. Recently, he and his brother trained in Florida during a break, which contributed to his strong performance as the playoffs approach. Robertson emphasizes the importance of teamwork and connectivity on the ice to enhance the team’s chances of success.
First Shift 🏒
Last week, the Stars held an optional practice where backup goalie Casey DeSmith and Robertson, both healthy scratches, took to the ice.
This is typical behavior for the 25-year-old winger, known for his dedication to the game. He is frequently the first to hit the ice and typically the last to leave.
When asked about his motivation for practicing that day, Robertson replied, “Well, we were at the arena, so why not go?”
In recent years, Robertson has frequently taken the ice alongside Scott Wedgewood and is a regular partner for DeSmith.
“Most of the time, it’s for the goalies, so I go out to assist them, work on some skills, and score some goals,” Robertson explained. “Those are the moments I find the most enjoyable, so I really love it.”
By “assisting,” Robertson often finds himself playfully challenging the goaltenders with an array of wild shots and enthusiastic celebrations. However, it’s all in good fun. He approaches each practice session with a solid plan, using the time to refine his skills as the team’s leading goal scorer.
“Goal scorers want to score; it’s essential for them, much like oxygen, and you can see that drive in him,” coach Pete DeBoer noted. “He puts considerable effort into that aspect of his game.”
Since January 1, Robertson leads the NHL with 23 goals and ranks fifth in points with 43. This achievement is impressive, especially considering he underwent foot surgery last summer and had a sluggish start to the season.
“It’s taken some time,” Robertson stated. “It was a process, but you just have to work through it.”
Much of that effort took place during practice. Robertson prides himself on getting on the ice as often as he can. He typically opts not to skip practices when given the choice and aims to remain on the ice during the league’s breaks. During the 4 Nations Face-Off, he traveled to Florida with his brother Nick, who plays for the Maple Leafs; the two skated and trained with a coach.
“It took some planning,” Robertson admitted when discussing his thoughts on practice. “I knew I wanted to get away, and I didn’t want to return home to Michigan to skate; the weather there was dreary. We decided on Florida, and it was a fantastic trip.”
He emerged from that experience with renewed energy and has been crucial to the Stars’ strong performance following the tournament. Now, he is eager to continue that momentum into the playoffs.
“You want to position yourself as favorably as possible,” Robertson mentioned. “We’re gearing up for the playoffs. It’s essential to eliminate the uncertainties in our game right now. We need to be more cohesive on the ice, ensuring five players are available at all times, whether during the forecheck or breakouts. Being connected allows more time with the puck and less time defending. This has been the blueprint since I joined Dallas. It’s faltered in the past weeks, but we aim to improve.”
If anyone is poised to prepare the Stars, it’s Robertson.
“He’s honest about his own performance, and I believe that benefits him,” DeBoer remarked. “He’s a smart player, a creative player, and he undoubtedly enjoys scoring.”