The Toronto Maple Leafs and John Tavares remain far from reaching a contract extension as the July 1 free agency deadline approaches. Tavares’ current seven-year, $77 million deal, which ended after the 2024-25 season, has expired, and both sides are now negotiating a new agreement amid increasing time pressure.
Ongoing Negotiations Face Challenges Ahead of Deadline
NHL insider Pierre LeBrun reported on Saturday that discussions between the Maple Leafs and Tavares’ camp are still ongoing but have not yielded a breakthrough. Despite active talks led by agent Pat Brisson, no agreement has been finalized.
“The Leafs and John Tavares’ camp, led by agent Brisson, still haven’t found their sweet spot on an extension,” LeBrun wrote on The Athletic. “Wherever each side is, it wasn’t close enough as of Saturday. The stakes are high here.”
At 34 years old, Tavares continues to be a key contributor for the team, having scored 38 goals and recorded 74 points last season while anchoring the second line. He has publicly expressed a strong desire to remain in Toronto.
“Obviously, I’ve expressed my desire to stay and make it work,” Tavares said in May, according to NHL.com.
Potential Roadblocks and Contract Structure Considerations
The impasse in negotiations seems connected to the contract’s length or financial terms, as Tavares is expected to accept a reduced salary compared to his previous deal. However, specifics remain elusive, and both sides have yet to find a compromise.
“It’s probably still going to get done, but it’s a fascinating one to be sure,” LeBrun wrote.
One possible solution is that Tavares might accept a lower annual salary for a longer-term contract, helping the Maple Leafs better manage their salary cap space. This is particularly relevant given the need to also re-sign young forward Matthew Knies, who just finished his entry-level contract and anticipates a significant raise.
Fortunately for general manager Brad Treliving, the NHL’s salary cap will increase by $7.5 million to $95.5 million in the 2025-26 season. This rise should provide sufficient financial flexibility to accommodate Tavares’ new deal.
John Tavares’ Commitment to Staying in Toronto
Replacing Tavares would leave a noticeable void for the Leafs, making his willingness to stay a key factor in ongoing talks. Averaging more than 30 goals per season in recent years, he remains a valuable presence in the lineup.
“Obviously, my contract is done, but we’re coming up soon for decisions to be made and things like that,” Tavares said. “Very optimistic that we can work something out where I’m back.”
Having signed with his hometown team in 2018, Tavares grew up close to Toronto in Mississauga and Oakville, Ontario. He has expressed interest in raising his family near where he began his hockey journey, adding a personal dimension to his motivation for staying.
With free agency imminent, these upcoming days are pivotal for both parties, but the Maple Leafs and Tavares remain at an impasse for now.