Stars Rumors: Latest on Chris Tanev's Future in Dallas

Chris Tanev is one of the best free-agent defensemen who can hit the market on July 1. However, if the Dallas Stars have it their way, this will not come to fruition.

According to NHL insider Pierre LeBrun, the Stars are still having contract discussions with Tanev.

Given how solid of an addition Tanev was to the right side of the Stars' defense, it is not particularly surprising that the Stars want to keep him. There is no question that he was a steady presence on their blueline, and it would be huge if they could keep him around because of it.

However, given how solid of a player Tanev is, it is not a secret that he will have a big market if he hits the market next week, as LeBrun also noted. LeBrun specifically mentioned that the Toronto Maple Leafs have an interest in Tanev, which is not surprising. They were in the mix for him this season before the Stars acquired him from the Calgary Flames.

With the Stars being true contenders, they would benefit immensely by keeping Tanev around. Yet, if they can't get a new deal done for him, they will likely browse the market for his replacement. Two names who could make sense for them in this scenario are Brett Pesce and Matt Roy.