The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly close to securing a contract extension with John Tavares.
Tavares, who is in the final season of his seven-year, $77 million deal, is set to become a free agent on July 1. However, he has expressed a strong desire to remain in Toronto. According to NHL insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, an agreement is already in place, though some final details still need to be ironed out.
“Tavares, like Marner, also needs a new contract. There has been chatter of a three-year extension in place that requires some fine-tuning, but nobody will confirm. His AAV will drop, likely in the $7 million range,” Pagnotta reported.
With $31.32 million in projected cap space next season, the Leafs have the financial flexibility to finalize deals for Tavares, Mitch Marner, and young star Matthew Knies, who is set to become a restricted free agent. However, it remains uncertain whether Toronto is willing to offer Marner a deal exceeding $13 million per season.
John Tavares has been a vital part of the Maple Leafs’ core since signing with his hometown team. However, at 34 years old, his next contract is expected to come at a much lower price than his current $11 million per season, according to David Pagnotta.
Despite his age, Tavares remains a productive player, having registered 21 goals and 24 assists for 45 points in 48 games this season. His leadership and experience continue to be valuable assets for Toronto, but his next deal will likely reflect his evolving role within the team.
Tavares Wants to Re-Sign With Maple Leafs
Since the Maple Leafs’ playoff exit last season, John Tavares has been vocal about his desire to remain in Toronto.
Although an official contract extension has yet to be signed, the veteran forward has made it clear that staying with the Leafs is his priority.
“I’ve said it before, I would love to stay and hope it works out,” Tavares told NHL.com on December 20. “I think that’s my goal and my intention.”
With negotiations ongoing, Toronto’s front office will have to decide how Tavares fits into their long-term plans as he approaches the final stretch of his career.
Tavares’ Journey and Toronto’s Trade Deadline Plans
John Tavares was originally selected first overall in the 2009 NHL Draft by the New York Islanders, where he spent nine seasons before signing with his hometown Toronto Maple Leafs in 2018. Now, as contract talks continue, the Leafs are also looking to strengthen their roster ahead of the March 7 trade deadline.
Toronto Linked to Several Forwards
With one of the strongest rosters in the NHL, the Maple Leafs are expected to be active in the trade market. A key priority for Toronto is adding a center, and according to David Pagnotta, the team has expressed interest in multiple forwards to bolster their lineup for a deep playoff run.
As the deadline approaches, the Leafs will need to decide whether to make a splash with a major acquisition or focus on depth additions to complement their star-studded core.
Maple Leafs in the Market for a Second-Line Center
Toronto’s search for a second-line center has been ongoing for months, as they look to strengthen their roster for a deep playoff push. According to David Pagnotta, the Leafs are also exploring left-wing options and aiming to improve their third line.
“It is no secret Toronto is in the market for a second-line center,” Pagnotta reported. “They have been on the hunt for months, while also exploring their options at left wing. They’d also like to upgrade their third line. With limited cap space, though, it is going to take some expert craftsmanship to fill their needs.”
With the March 7 trade deadline approaching, GM Brad Treliving will need to be creative in making moves, as the Leafs have limited salary cap flexibility. Whether through trades, salary retention, or roster adjustments, Toronto will need to navigate the market carefully to address its biggest weaknesses.