Insider Frank Seravalli Provides Crucial Update on John Tavares' Contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs
NHL insider Frank Seravalli offers new major insight into the future of Toronto Maple Leafs star John Tavares in what could be the end of his time with the team.
A lot of speculation surrounds whether or not John Tavares will stick with the Maple Leafs past this season, with many wondering what it takes to keep him around for the long haul.
Frank Seravalli reported a recent update in regards to extension talks between the Toronto Maple Leafs and John Tavares and it seems like an agreement is imminent.
It's a move that would allow for the Leafs to turn their attention in the coming months to the re-signing of star forward and fellow free agent Mitch Marner.
John Tavares' Career Should End With The Maple Leafs
Reports in the past few months have linked Tavares with a likely return to Toronto since the start of the season.
TSN's Mike Johnson shared that he believes while Tavares will likely return to Toronto, that the team isn't rushing to finalize a deal knowing the goal from both sides being staying with the Leafs, with neither Toronto's front office seeking a trade or Tavares wanting one.
A hometown Toronto native, Tavares was speculated to potentially be on the way out after losing the captaincy to Auston Matthews.
But it's something Tavares has taken in stride and hasn't led to any vocal animosity over the decision, one Tavares personally approved of and had extensive discussion about.
Tavares even at age 34, continues to be a productive NHLer with 13 goals, 15 assists, and 28 points in 30 games played.
It also showcases the potential to return to a point-per-game form after a quieter 2023-24 that saw Tavares hit a respectable 29 goals and 65 points in 80 games played. A fine total, but not a dominant year as is typical for Tavares.
Likely taking a bridge deal as Tavares navigates the future of Toronto as a contender, what will be a big factor is the final dollar amount.
But with both sides looking to continue their partnership, it's likely to see a deal reached eventually that keeps Tavares in blue and white for the next few years.
