Veteran GM Looks to Avoid Getting 'Marner'd' Could Create Unique Opportunity for Leafs

Jason Robertson, who posted a very solid 35 goals and 80 points in 82 games last season, has been one of Dallas' most consistent players in recent years. However, his playoff performance left some questioning his ability to perform when it matters most, as he managed just six points in 11 games.

In contrast, the Stars' recently acquired star Mikko Rantanen stepped up and lived up to the trade and extension, putting up nine goals and 22 points in 18 games. Rantanen's breakout playoff run has only fueled speculation that Dallas may see him as a more reliable cornerstone for the future.

Veteran general manager Jim Nill seems determined not to repeat the mistakes made by the Toronto Maple Leafs, with Mitch Marner's contract drama allowing it to drag on -- or worse, risking the possibility of losing a star for nothing. The Stars seem unwilling to give Robertson a deal richer than Rantanen's 8-year, $12 million per season contract.

Robertson, currently signed for a very team-friendly $7.75 million AAV, would be an attractive trade chip for almost any contender. If the Stars truly explore the market, several teams could make a push. Among them, the Toronto Maple Leafs have been floated as a possible fit, particularly given the chance for Robertson to reunite with his brother and current Maple Leaf, Nick Robertson.

While Toronto may lack the assets to win a bidding war, the financial side could work if Dallas retained salary. In fact, if Dallas retained 50%, Toronto would only need to move David Kampf to make the cap space work. They wouldn't retain nearly the much, if anything, but the ability to make it work is there from a financial standpoint.

The real question is what Dallas would want in return. If the Stars are eyeing top prospects like Easton Cowan or Ben Danford, it's not out of the realm of possibility that the Maple Leafs could at least enter the conversation.

While a deal may be unlikely, the fact that Robertson's name is even surfacing in trade discussions signals that the Stars are willing to take a hard stance. With Rantanen proving his playoff value, Dallas may prefer certainty over the potential of another contract standoff.

For Toronto, the opportunity to add Robertson would be a dream scenario. But, unless GM Brad Treliving is willing to part with premier prospects, it's far more likely Robertson stays put or lands elsewhere if Dallas pulls the trigger.

Either way, this could be one of the biggest storylines to watch leading into the season.