The Toronto Maple Leafs have initiated contract extension talks with star forward John Tavares, according to TSN insider Pierre LeBrun. Tavares, who is entering the final year of his seven-year, $77 million contract, has expressed his desire to stay in Toronto. LeBrun reports that preliminary discussions have begun between Tavares’ camp, led by agent Pat Brisson, and the Maple Leafs, though no deal is imminent yet.

“There’s been back-and-forth between Tavares’ camp and the Leafs front office to get the ball rolling,” said LeBrun on *Insider Trading*, adding that more talks are expected soon. While both sides are interested in reaching a deal, the Maple Leafs are not in a rush to finalize it.

Tavares has been with the Maple Leafs since the 2018-19 season, recording 184 goals and 235 assists in 440 games. Ahead of the 2024-25 season, Tavares stepped down as captain, allowing Auston Matthews to take over the role. Tavares, who will serve as an assistant captain, reiterated his commitment to helping the Leafs win a Stanley Cup and hopes to stay in Toronto long-term.