Anna, Texas — The deal sent Bourque and Lyubushkin to the Predators in exchange for second- and third-round draft picks. Dallas also re-signed forward Joel Kiviranta to a one-year, $1 million contract on Day 1.
The cap-clearing moves reflect the tight financial position the Stars built after consecutive deep playoff runs and a roster loaded with high-priced talent. Nill acknowledged the difficulty of shedding productive players but emphasized the need to secure the franchise's core.
General manager Jim Nill said re-signing Robertson remains the organization's top priority, with the star winger reportedly seeking a long-term deal at roughly $12 to $15 million annually. Captain Jamie Benn hit unrestricted free agency, though a return to Dallas has been widely expected.
