The NHL rumor mill is heating up, and one name is dominating the conversation: Seth Jones. The Chicago Blackhawks defenseman has reportedly informed management that he’d like to be traded to a playoff-contending team as he enters the latter stages of his career. With the Dallas Stars emerging as a potential suitor, let’s break down why this move could make sense for both sides—and what a potential trade might look like.
Why Seth Jones to the Dallas Stars Makes Sense
The Dallas Stars are in win-now mode. With a core led by Jason Robertson, Roope Hintz, and Miro Heiskanen, the Stars are legitimate Stanley Cup contenders. However, their blue line could use an upgrade, especially with the need for a right-handed defenseman who can log heavy minutes. Enter Seth Jones.
Jones, 30, is a proven workhorse defenseman who can play in all situations. While his $9.5 million cap hit through 2030 is daunting, the Blackhawks could retain salary to make the deal more palatable for Dallas. For the Stars, adding Jones would solidify their top-four defense and give them another weapon to compete in the stacked Western Conference.
On the flip side, the Blackhawks are in full rebuild mode. Trading Jones would free up significant cap space, allowing them to pivot toward future flexibility. Chicago isn’t in a position to demand a king’s ransom for Jones, given his contract and age, but they could still acquire valuable assets to aid their rebuild.
The Mock Trade Proposal
Here’s a potential framework for a Seth Jones trade to Dallas:
Dallas Stars receive:
- Seth Jones ($1.5 million retained by Chicago)
- Antti Saarela
Chicago Blackhawks receive:
- Matt Dumba
- Ilya Lyubushkin
- Brendan Smith
- 2026 first-round pick
This trade balances immediate needs for both teams. Dallas gets a top-tier defenseman without completely gutting their roster, while Chicago acquires expiring contracts, a first-round pick, and cap relief to accelerate their rebuild.
Final Thoughts
Seth Jones to the Dallas Stars is far from a done deal, but the rumors are gaining traction. If the Stars are serious about making a deep playoff run, acquiring a player of Jones’ caliber could be the move that puts them over the top.
Find the Latest Dallas Stars News, NHL Trade Rumors, and Game Schedules
Stay ahead of the curve with the latest Dallas Stars news, NHL trade rumors, and game schedules. Wondering what channel the Stars game is on today? Visit nhltraderumor.com for all the updates. Don’t forget to bookmark our site and sign up for our weekly newsletter to never miss a beat!
Jones and $3.5M retained for Dumba, Lundkvist, Stankoven, and one fifth of a ham sandwich.
In your dreams.