Having been around when Brad Richards got his shot at free agency, I learned a lot about the player's perspective in these situations.
Richards, who tallied 91 points with the Stars in 2009-10, did not approve a trade at the trade deadline in 2011 because he didn't want to feel commitment to a team that traded for him. He also did not want to remain with the Stars because the organization was battling financial problems, and couldn't afford to put a Stanley Cup contender on the ice.
Richards worked his entire career and was a good soldier, so he felt he earned the right to be a free agent. He felt he earned the right to pick the team he wanted to play for. He felt he earned the right to make himself happy.
Heika: Tavares considering Dallas a strong statement for Stars
The fact the potential free-agent superstar reportedly wants to talk to Dallas says a lot about his perception of this team