Analyst suggests Maple Leafs could trade top two rookies for elite Stars winger Jason Robertson
Photo credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
The Maple Leafs have limited trade assets available, but one top analyst believes they could package several top assets in trade for Stars' Jason Robertson.
The Toronto Maple Leafs appear to be in the process of flipping the script, turning their fortunes around and compiling a 5-0-2 record in their last 7 games, collecting 12 of a possible 14 points along the way.
There have been reports suggesting that the Leafs may not swing for the fences this year, but rather save their top trade assets and only make minor tweaks this season. However, there is a pretty unique option available to them, if they're bold enough to pursue it.
Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson is believed to be available, as extension talks have gone essentially nowhere thus far. Now, Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos is suggesting that the Leafs could be Robertson's landing spot.
Easton Cowan could help bring Jason Robertson to Toronto
In an article released this week, Kypreos revealed that Easton Cowan's name was on the table last season, as the Leafs pursued a deal for Brayden Schenn. While he has since come off the table, a deal for Jason Robertson could entice the Leafs to remove the "untouchable" tag.
"Last year, Easton Cowan was pushed as a trade chip in an effort to try and obtain Brayden Schenn, but Cowan's going to be hard to put into play again this season.One idea floating around the league is a bigger swing involving Dallas - specifically Jason Robertson."
Kypreos did not stop there, as he suggested that the framework of a deal for Robertson could not only involve Cowan, but top defensive prospect Ben Danford as well.
Robertson has produced 52 points thus far, good for 8th in NHL scoring as of Wednesday. In addition, Robertson also sits 4th in goals with 25. When you're talking about a star player in the top-10 in two major categories, you're talking about a very large trade package.
The idea of reuniting the Robertson brothers in Toronto is certainly an exciting proposition. However, balancing that against losing two of the organization's top prospects is anxiety-inducing.
The Leafs aren't rich in future assets, but there's no question that Jason Robertson makes the team a lot better now, in their perceived contention window. The kicker here is that the Leafs would have to work an extension for Robertson into the trade.
According to Kypreos, Robertson is seeking an AAV similar to Mikko Rantanen ($12M). The Leafs are one of the few contending teams who can actually afford to pay that this summer.
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