The Dallas Stars signed general manager Jim Nill to a two-year extension on Tuesday, a move that may have come with some added urgency.

Just one day prior, the Toronto Maple Leafs parted ways with GM Brad Treliving, sparking speculation that Toronto could look to pursue a proven executive like Nill. That led many fans to ask an interesting question across social media: can NHL teams actually trade for a general manager?

The answer is yes, but it is extremely rare as in the National Hockey League, general managers are under contract just like players and coaches. That means a team cannot simply hire another team’s GM without permission. If a team wants to bring in an executive under contract, they must request permission to speak with them, and compensation can be negotiated between the two organizations.

There have been examples of this type of movement in the past like Lou Lamoriello, who changed organizations during his career, including when the New York Islanders brought him in following his time with Toronto, although that situation was not a direct trade.

In the end, Dallas locking up Nill removes any uncertainty and ensures stability in their front office, while also shutting down any possibility of another team attempting to pry him away.