Report: Maple Leafs engaged in contract discussions with forward worth $77 million
The Toronto Maple Leafs face a long season ahead, but they are already evaluating their financial situation. With several key players, especially two members of their self-proclaimed Core Four, set to become unrestricted free agents in July 2025, the team is exploring ways to retain veteran forward John Tavares for the rest of his career. To accommodate upcoming free agents like Mitch Marner and Jake McCabe, Tavares would likely need to accept a reduced salary in a future contract. According to The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun, the Leafs have initiated early contract discussions with their former captain.
“The Toronto Maple Leafs and John Tavares’ camp, represented by veteran agent Pat Brisson, have engaged in contract discussions,” LeBrun reported on Tuesday.
The veteran forward, entering the final seasons of his seven-year, $77 million contract, is expected to take a significant pay cut from his current average annual value of $11 million in his next deal. “The delicate dance here is finding a sweet spot on what a pay cut looks like from Tavares’ current $11 million AAV,” LeBrun noted. “They’re not there yet, but the dialogue will continue. There’s mutual interest in continuing the relationship. Tavares is raising his family in his hometown and doesn’t want to go anywhere.”
Tavares, who turned 34 in September, has spent six seasons in Toronto recording 78 points per 82 games on average. However, his postseason performance has been less consistent, with 12 goals and 12 assists in 38 playoff appearances. Despite the Leafs’ only advancing past the first round once in the time Tavares has spent in Toronto, both the player and the team appear interested in maintaining their partnership if they can reach a proper deal.
“I don’t think there’s any rush to get something done, especially from the team’s perspective,” LeBrun wrote. “Obviously, the Leafs have other important matters to address, including pending UFA Mitch Marner.” The Leafs are projected to enter next summer with approximately $30 million in cap space, as the cap limit is expected to increase to $92 million, but they currently have only 14 players signed for the 2025-26 season.
