The Toronto Maple Leafs are looking to lock up a key piece of their core, as contract extension discussions with veteran forward John Tavares have begun. This news, first reported by TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, suggests that while a deal isn’t imminent, both sides are interested in keeping Tavares in the blue and white.
This development is intriguing for a number of reasons. Tavares, who will be 35 at the start of next season, is entering the final year of his massive seven-year, $77 million contract. While he remains a productive player, putting up 65 points in 80 games last season, there’s been a noticeable decline in his overall game. His 0.81 points-per-game average was his lowest since his rookie campaign, and his once-elite faceoff numbers have dipped significantly.
However, Tavares still brings a lot to the table. He’s a respected leader in the dressing room, a valuable contributor on the power play, and a reliable source of offense. He’s also deeply committed to the city of Toronto, having famously chosen to sign with his hometown team back in 2018.
Will JT Take a Hometown Discount to Stay in Toronto?
The Leafs, meanwhile, have some important factors to consider. With roughly $30 million in projected cap space next summer, they need to be mindful of how they allocate their resources. Mitch Marner, Jake McCabe, and a host of promising young RFAs will all be looking for new deals.
Leafs insider and TSN radio host Carlo Colaiacovo has suggested that Tavares could sign a three-year extension with a $3 million cap hit. This would represent a significant pay cut for Tavares, but it would also give the Leafs much-needed financial flexibility.
Ultimately, the decision will come down to what Tavares values most at this stage of his career. Does he prioritize maximizing his earnings on what could be his last big contract? Or is he willing to take less money to stay in Toronto and chase a Stanley Cup with the team he grew up cheering for?
This is a situation worth monitoring closely. As negotiations progress, we’ll get a clearer picture of where both sides stand and what the future holds for John Tavares in Toronto.
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