John Tavares and Leafs in talks for contract extension per source
Photo credit: Toronto Maple Leafs on YouTube
Despite handing the captaincy down to Auston Matthews, NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman suggested that a John Tavares extension with the Toronto Maple Leafs is not off the table.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have had a lot of early playoff exits in recent years, and after another unfortunate outcome, the team is undergoing some serious growing pains. The latest change, however, has been largely welcomed and expected by fans for years. After eight years with the team, 26-year-old forward Auston Matthews has officially become the captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
"I was shaking, I had chills. Like I said it was such a big honor just to represent the Maple Leafs and put on that jersey every night. To be a captain is truly special.
However, this has left fans with one question unanswered: what are we going to do with John Tavares? He had served as the team captain for years and is now entering the last season of his seven-year $77 million contract. Yet, he has such a big role on the team that analysts suggest that the former captain will likely stick around for a few more years. According to Elliotte Friedman on a recent edition of the 32 Thoughts Podcast, both parties are likely still discussing, but would definitely not release anything until after the Auston Matthews hype fades a little more.
"I still think that's in play for Tavares, a potential extension,» Friedman said. «You're not going to hear anything about it on Wednesday. I don't think it's done and even if it was done, I don't think they would overshadow Matthews. But it's been discussed. I think it will continue to be discussed."
John Tavares, now entering his mid-thirties, is still proving a productive player, recording 29 goals and 36 assists in 80 regular season games. With this, there is no doubt that he would still be a valuable part of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Whether or not an extension is reached, it will probably have to wait until all the talk of Auston Matthews' newly-endowed captaincy slows to a halt.
Source: Daily Hive
Leafs, Tavares have discussed contract extension: report
Leafs, Tavares have discussed contract extension: report
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16 AOUT | 490 ANSWERS John Tavares and Leafs in talks for contract extension per source Will the Toronto Maple Leafs extend John Tavares? | ||
| Yes | 353 | 72 % |
| No | 137 | 28 % |
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