John Tavares wants extension with Toronto Maple Leafs

Despite much talk and speculation about big changes this past offseason, the Toronto Maple Leafs appear ready to move forward without any notable differences. Discussions have already emerged that superstar forward Mitch Marner would be obtain a contract extension, and he’s not the only member of the Maple Leafs core to witness similar discussions.

According to Chris Johnston on TSN insider trading, Former captain John Tavares has expressed interest in remaining with the Maple Leafs and is aiming for a deal before the free agent market opens.

“(John Tavares) has made it very clear that he would like to stay in Toronto,” Johnston said. “There is no point in testing the free agent market.”

Although Tavares has made his intentions known, nothing regarding an extension is immanent.

“So far,” Johnston said. “Discussions have not reached a stage where everyone is comfortable with the proposed agreement.”

Tavares is in the final season of a seven-year contract that pays him $11 million per year against the salary cap. At 34 years old and likely signing his last big league contract, Tavares’ new deal will likely have to include a reduced salary.

Beyond just a drop in dollars, Johnston says there could be more money to maneuver around in a new deal itself.

“A possibility has emerged here: using deferred salary compensation as a means, perhaps, of filling part of the financial gap that exists today. »

Tavares would not be the first member of the Maple Leafs to sign a deferred salary contract, as defender Jake McCabe agreed to one during the offseason. Several players on the Carolina Hurricanes roster are also signed similar agreements.

Regardless of money or years, both sides are interested in making a deal and keeping Tavares in a Maple Leafs sweater a little longer.

Over the past eight years, the Maple Leafs have built on the strongest and deadliest offensive teams in the NHL, but only have one playoff victory to show for it. There is hope that the 2024-25 season could finally bring a much more favorable outcome.

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