Stars' Robertson admits bid to make 4 Nations roster was 'a distraction'

Dallas Stars winger Jason Robertson believes his focus on earning a spot on the United States' 4 Nations Face-Off roster contributed to his slow start to the 2024-25 campaign.

"I had a slow start to the year. When they announced it in early December, you kind of have a feeling that your play wasn't good enough," Robertson told The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun. "The first half wasn't good enough. Regardless of what you did earlier (in your career), it's what you did recently. I had an idea.

"When I didn't make the team, the weight was off my shoulders as far as not having to think about it anymore. It was somewhat of a distraction. Obviously I would love to play for the team. It would have been a great honor. But it definitely felt like I could put it aside and turn the page and focus on our team game without having to think about whether my play was good enough."

Robertson was long thought to be a shoo-in to make Team USA and play a prominent role in the lineup. He ranked fourth among American skaters in points the previous three seasons and third in goals.

However, the Arcadia, California, native was left off the team after producing 14 points in 24 games this season before the rosters were announced Dec. 4. Robertson has taken off since then, though, registering 21 points in 18 contests.

Robertson also attributes his slow start to his offseason foot surgery.

"First half of the first half, there was a little catching up to do," Robertson said. "Obviously had foot surgery. I didn't have any training in the summer. I was just sitting idle for a long time. Missed training camp. I was playing catch-up. I didn't know what that was like. I had never had surgery and didn't realize how important my offseason was. All we do over the summer is train, prepare and get better. When you're jamming that into a couple of weeks, you don't feel as good. You don't feel up to par."

Robertson will have more chances to represent his country. He's still just 25 years old, and the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina aren't far away.

"It would be awesome," Robertson said of potentially making the Olympic team. "Playing with that amount of skill and talent, it would be incredible. But it's 13 months away. A lot of hockey left and hopefully a long playoff run for us."