On Monday night, the Toronto Maple Leafs became the first team to defeat the Winnipeg Jets in the 2024-25 season. Former captain John Tavares played an important role in that win, scoring a hat trick on Connor Hellebuyck, one of the best goalies in the entire NHL. After nine games, Tavares tallies nine points, including five goals.
Before the Jets game, Tavares had six points in eight games, showing signs of struggle. However, when the team needed him to step up in an important game, he did it in great fashion.
Tavares entered the final season of his seven-year, $11 million AAV contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, and will look to sign an extension in Toronto. The organization also wants to keep him, but it's always a question of money and terms in the NHL.
There's no doubt that Tavares will sign for a lot less. At his age and his production rate, he won't be among the highest-paid players in the NHL anymore. As for the length, well, the insider David Pagnotta shared in a recent podcast that he won't sign a long-term contract:
At 34 years old, the Leafs won't risk signing Tavares to a lengthy contract. Don't be surprised if he signs a one or two-year deal like many players of that age, such as Sidney Crosby, decide to do.
Stay tuned as we find the latest developments regarding Tavares' contractual negotiations!
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