As the Toronto Maple Leafs approach the 2025 offseason, John Tavares’ $11 million cap hit expiring presents both challenges and opportunities. Tavares remains productive, with 29 goals and 65 points last season, but his declining play-driving ability raises concerns about his value at such a high salary. With his contract ending, the Leafs face a critical decision point regarding roster improvements.

Ironically, the most feasible option might be retaining him.

What Is the Maple Leafs’ Plan A for 2025?

If Tavares seeks market value next summer, the Maple Leafs will likely need to look elsewhere. They can’t afford to pay him what another team might offer, nor should they want to. The 2025 free-agent market for centers appears weak.

Harman Dayal of The Athletic notes that unless a major player like Leon Draisaitl or Sidney Crosby becomes unexpectedly available, options are limited. Players like Brock Nelson, Sam Bennett, and Matt Duchene might be on Toronto’s radar, but they may not offer significant upgrades. Nelson, for example, will also command a high salary.

This leaves Toronto in a difficult position, needing to replace Tavares’ offensive output while remaining competitive.

Given these constraints, the Maple Leafs might need to explore the trade market for a center upgrade. However, acquiring a top-tier center requires significant assets, and the Leafs must decide what they’re willing to trade. Considering their talented roster, Toronto will have to weigh the pros and cons of giving up young players or draft picks for a new centerpiece.

Plan B Might Be to Re-Sign Tavares

Moving on from Tavares might not be the best move. Dayal writes:

Toronto might also explore trades for center help, but what assets would they need to give up? Re-signing Tavares to a heavily discounted extension could be a fallback option.

While breaking up the Core Four has its advantages, re-signing Tavares to a more affordable extension could be beneficial. If the Leafs can negotiate a salary that better reflects his on-ice impact, keeping Tavares could provide stability and experience. With a reasonable salary, he could remain a productive contributor, especially in crucial moments. This option would maintain depth at center while freeing up cap space for other roster needs.

This Isn’t Necessarily About Dumping Tavares

Losing Tavares’ cap hit will offer financial relief, but moving him out might not be the best option.

The Maple Leafs need to replace his contributions effectively, and there aren’t many suitable alternatives. By significantly reducing Tavares’ cap hit, the Leafs can build a strong supporting cast around stars like Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, crucial for Toronto’s success. Tavares could take a step back from the captaincy and embrace a complementary role.

Plan A might seem to be moving out Tavares and his salary. However, Plan B, keeping him on the roster at a salary that matches his value and in a lesser role, makes more sense. This approach would ensure a smoother on-ice transition and a less disruptive narrative behind the scenes.