Brad Treliving Must Target Familiar Contract Structure for John Tavares

Although it's more than likely John Tavares is going to re-sign with the Maple Leafs, the only question seems to be the amount. He's not going to make near the $11M he's currently making, but he should still earn a respectable deal.

So while it's still going to be a decrease, the only question seems to be how steep that ends up being, but for James Mirtle of The Athletic; who appeared on the JD Bunkis podcasthe thinks the Leafs should offer a very similar deal to Chris Tanev's.

Putting in a offer similar to Tanev's not only ensures that Tavares finishes out his career in Toronto, but it allows him to make a good chunk of change in his last deal.

We've seen Yanni Gourde sign for a much, much steeper discount already, and while the tax situation and skill gap is quite drastic; it does set a precedent.

We all know how Tavares feels about playing in Toronto, and with his childhood dream already long-fulfilled, the only thing left is to win a Cup.

While he could have several other suitors and contenders vying for his services, his loyalty to the team is what's endeared him so much to the fans.

He was stripped of the captaincy this season and took it in stride, then proceeded to score nearly 40 goals and look like he's a decade younger at times; he took what Toronto threw at him and ran with it.

He deserves to be paid well, and a long-term deal that keeps him around until he's 40 will a) give him enough time to play for a Cup and b) mentor the young players he will inevitably pass the torch to.

While Mirtle believes the Leafs could get Tavares for under $4M, even at that price, signing him for five years at $20M is a bargain, especially with a rising cap and his level of production even at at advanced age (in terms of hockey playersat least).

This season, Tavares had 74 points in 75 games (38G, 36A), while also becoming one of only five players in NHL history to have over 200 goals with two separate franchises.

Considering he would have made over that amount in only two seasons previously, it's a definite loss in the grand scheme of things.

But for a player who has made over $100M in his career, with a name and iconic status within the city; money seemingly doesn't matter.

Which is great news for the Maple Leafs, as they try to balance the books this summer, with a lot of changes still to be made.