Dallas may have found their next Mikko Rantanen, and almost no one noticed

Ayrton Martino is quickly becoming one of the Dallas Stars' most intriguing prospects, and his style is drawing early comparisons to Mikko Rantanen.

Fresh off a breakout senior season at Clarkson University where he put up 51 points in 39 games and earned ECAC Player of the Year, Martino is stepping into the professional ranks with a mix of speed, vision, and skill that the Stars believe could help them soon.

With Dallas looking to add more dynamic offense to their middle six, Martino's chance may come faster than many expect.

Why Ayrton Martino's game resembles Mikko Rantanen's and how he could elevate the Stars' offense

Martino's calling card is his playmaking and pace.

Scouting reports from Smaht Scouting describe him as a player who

"constantly drives play forward, creates scoring lanes, and makes quick reads that lead to high-danger chances."

While Rantanen thrives on size and strength, Martino uses slippery speed and sharp edgework to break through the neutral zone and feed teammates in space.

He still has areas to grow, particularly with his shot accuracy and defensive play, but those are traits coaches believe can improve with AHL time.

The Hockey Writers noted that Martino's agility and creativity make him a natural fit for a team like Dallas, adding:

"His vision and quick hands let him operate in tight spaces, and he rarely needs much room to make a play."

Ayrton Martino- 2021 NHL Draft Prospect Profile

I think Martino could be a difference-maker if he adjusts to the physical side of pro hockey, because Dallas needs that kind of creator behind their top scorers.

If he delivers, he could be the Stars' breakout prospect by midseason, helping their depth scoring without the cost of a big trade.