On February 26, 2008, the Lightning traded Richards and goaltender Johan Holmqvist to the Dallas Stars in exchange for Mike Smith, Jeff Halpern, Jussi Jokinen and a 4th round draft pick in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft. During the 2008 Playoffs, he was able to tie an NHL record after he scored four points in a single period in game 2 against the San Jose Sharks.