John Tavares Tips His Hand on Fufure with the Maple Leafs

Tavares is entering the final year of his 7-year, $77M contract, which he signed in 2018 with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Earlier this summer, he willingly relinquished the captaincy to Auston Matthews, sparking speculation about his future in Toronto.

According to David Alter on X, Tavares shared his hopes for a long-term future with the Leafs, stating:

Last season was Tavares' least productive season as a Maple Leaf, though he still managed to be serviceable, amassing 65 points in 80 games during the 2023-24 season. Despite his steady output, he no longer justifies an $11 million salary. That much is clear.

Tavares has demonstrated good sportsmanship in accepting the loss of the captaincy. His vocal support for Matthews and clear intentions to remain in Toronto may increase the likelihood of him re-signing with the team after this season.

While Tavares is not the same player he was when he signed with the Leafs, he remains a crucial part of the team, albeit in a bit of a reduced role as he begins to slow down with age.

If William Nylander can establish himself as the team's 2nd line center, Tavares may transition to a third line center role, which could be ideal for him at this stage of his career.