There remains a possibility that John Tavares could rejoin the Toronto Maple Leafs, despite difficulties in the contract discussions. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman highlighted on the “32 Thoughts” podcast that both sides are pushing for the best possible deal, but obstacles have created uncertainty about the outcome.
“You’ve got a team trying to get Tavares to the best deal they can get, and you’ve got an agent trying to get Tavares to the best deal they can get,”
Friedman said on Monday (05:55), via the “32 Thoughts” podcast.
“And there’s going to be ups and downs, and there’s going to be moments where it looks close, and there’s going to be moments where it looks like it’s not going to happen.”
Friedman believes this week will be crucial in determining how committed both parties are to finalizing the agreement.
Team’s Strategic Efforts to Retain Tavares Amid Stalled Talks
The Toronto Maple Leafs are attempting unconventional approaches in their negotiations, but John Tavares has yet to respond positively to these efforts. Friedman noted that the team is aiming to avoid Tavares pursuing offers similar to the Brock Nelson contract available on the open market.
“Toronto is trying to be creative,”
Friedman added.
“I think Tavares could get the Brock Nelson deal on the open market. I think it’s possible. And I just don’t think Toronto wants to do that. Toronto is trying to be creative, and right now, Tavares isn’t biting on what they’re doing.”
There is confidence from Friedman that Tavares remains interested in staying with Toronto, and the Leafs also want to keep their star forward. However, they are looking to leverage their position to negotiate a more favorable contract.
Potential Use of Deferred Money to Secure Tavares’ Return
To bring John Tavares back, the Maple Leafs might need to employ unique contract structures. Friedman suggested that deferred salary could play a role, noting this could be among the last seasons when such arrangements are permissible under the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
“I think it’s possible, and this could be the last year you’re allowed to defer money,”
Friedman explained on Monday (07:15), via the “32 Thoughts” podcast.
“I think it just from what’s seeping out of the CBA. There’s a chance that all of this, the deferred money, could go away. But again, like this time of year, things change fast.”
He referenced the Florida Panthers’ handling of Sam Reinhart’s contract situation last season, pointing to how mutual interest helped successfully close that deal. Still, Friedman emphasized that the timing could be tight, and making the arrangement work financially might challenge the Leafs.
Financial Considerations and Cap Space Influence Contract Prospects
If the Maple Leafs want to retain Tavares, they will likely have to offer a competitive contract in terms of salary. With Mitch Marner expected not to use $14 million of the team‘s salary cap space, the Leafs might have the necessary flexibility to accommodate Tavares.
The outcome of these negotiations carries significant implications for Toronto’s roster and salary structure moving forward, as they must balance retaining key players while managing cap constraints amid an increasingly complex NHL market.