Western Conference Reportedly Poses Very Serious Threat to Leafs Over John Tavares
Photo credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
The Maple Leafs are under increasing pressure to re-sign John Tavares, as a potential suitor from the Western Conference may be preparing to make a move.
Following yet another disappointing early playoff exit, speculation about how the Toronto Maple Leafs will reshape their roster is in full swing.
One player who is confirmed to be leaving is Mitch Marner, with reports officially stating he will not return to Toronto next season.
Meanwhile, both Matthew Knies and John Tavares have publicly expressed their desire to stay in Toronto, and speculation suggests their new contracts could be finalized in the next few weeks.
However, the Leafs may want to move quickly -- particularly in Tavares' case -- as interest rapidly building from a Western Conference up-and-comer.
According to Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts podcast, as shared by NHL Watcher on X:
"I think we're still expecting them to take a run at Marner. I've actually wondered if Toronto and Tavares don't work this out and there's still time here, if Anaheim would be a team that would take a shot at Tavares too."
The Maple Leafs Need to Re-sign Veteran John Tavares to Avoid a Costly Mistake
At 34, Tavares may be on the back nine of his career, but his recent performance suggests he still has plenty left to offer. He tallied 38 goals and 74 points in 75 games last season -- strong numbers that show how he remains a valuable contributor.
The Leafs already lost out on Chris Kreider, who was traded to the Anaheim Ducks by the New York Rangers, despite Toronto reportedly having legitimate interest. If Tavares were to land with the Ducks as well, it would make that missed opportunity sting even more.
With major changes expected this offseason, securing Tavares and Knies early will help Toronto understand what cap space remains as they work to reshape the roster for a deeper playoff push.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 14 | 4316 ANSWERS Western Conference Reportedly Poses Very Serious Threat to Leafs Over John Tavares Will the aging John Tavares take a step back next season? | ||
| Yes | 2219 | 51.4 % |
| No | 2097 | 48.6 % |
| List of polls | ||
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