The Toronto Maple Leafs opened contract extension talks with defenseman Jake McCabe, but discussions have reportedly hit a standstill. NHL insider David Pagnotta from *The Fourth Period* revealed that while initial talks began during training camp in July, no substantial progress has been made.

“They had some talks in camp that started in July, but nothing yet,” Pagnotta reported. “Nothing has materialized. No traction at this point on a McCabe extension in Toronto. Of course, all it takes is one significant phone call to change that, but it would have to be a game-changing call right now to jumpstart negotiations.”

McCabe is in the final season of his four-year, $16 million deal, which will make him an unrestricted free agent on July 1. Despite the stall in talks, McCabe has expressed his desire to remain with the Maple Leafs, citing a strong connection with the team since his trade from the Chicago Blackhawks on February 27, 2023. “Yeah, we’ve talked a couple times,” McCabe said. “I love it here, and think they enjoy my game too… we’ll see where things go.”

As Toronto’s second-pairing, right-shot defenseman, McCabe has taken on a leadership role, both on and off the ice. Entering the season, he emphasized his commitment to driving the team forward: “I want to just take another step as a leader on this team and just keep pushing us in the right direction.”

NHL insider James Mirtle of *The Athletic* speculated that if the Leafs were to extend McCabe’s contract, it would likely be in the $5 million per season range over four or five years. Mirtle suggested Toronto may choose to front-load the contract, similar to how they managed Jake Muzzin’s deal, which would provide some protection if McCabe’s performance declines in the later years.

With 584 games, 33 goals, and 122 assists under his belt, McCabe’s future remains uncertain—but the Leafs may yet find a way to retain his key defensive presence.