NHL

Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs could consider major move to land Stars standout as Mitch Marner’s replacement

The Toronto Maple Leafs could soon learn the terms for making a move to acquire a Dallas Stars player as a replacement for Mitch Marner in the forward group led by Auston Matthews.

Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs gets set to face the New York Islanders in an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on December 29, 2018 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
© Claus Andersen/Getty ImagesAuston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs gets set to face the New York Islanders in an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on December 29, 2018 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

The Toronto Maple Leafs kick off the 2025-26 season with Auston Matthews more determined than ever to lead the offense. With the franchise reorganizing its lines following Mitch Marner’s departure, the rebuild includes the possibility of bringing in an offensive star, and the focus could turn to the Dallas Stars.

The Leafs are keeping a close eye on the market and have shown interest in strengthening their forward group with young, prolific talent. One of the names that has generated significant buzz recently is free agent Jack Roslovic, but now the franchise has received key information to explore acquiring a Dallas star.

Matthews will be expected to carry the offense to meet the goal of making a deep playoff run. To achieve this, Toronto would need to make a move and replace Marner up front.

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Which Stars player is of interest to Toronto?

The player attracting the Maple Leafs’ attention is none other than forward Jason Robertson, for whom Toronto now knows the asking price. “The Stars did look at what a return could be on Jason Robertson; it was always gonna be either for a roster player…or…part of some other bigger move,” reported insider Sean Shapiro on The Sick Podcast – The Eye Test.

Jason Robertson #21 of the Dallas Stars skates against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on February 23, 2025 in Elmont, New York.

Jason Robertson #21 of the Dallas Stars skates against the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on February 23, 2025 in Elmont, New York.

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Robertson is currently in the final year of a four-year contract averaging $7.75 million per season, according to NHL.com. Last season, he proved his value by contributing 35 goals and 45 assists for the Stars. The price isn’t cheap, but there’s another reason the Leafs might seriously consider him.

NHL News: Mikko Rantanen’s Stars reportedly hint fresh start with signing of former Devils forward after Peter DeBoer’s firing

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Robertson could play alongside his brother

Jason Robertson appears to be an appealing target for Toronto, which is looking to add depth and strength to its forward group. There’s a connection that could make the move even more enticing, as his brother Nick also plays for the franchise. The scenario would be ideal for both Robertsons to boost their careers alongside Matthews.

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