Leafs winger gunning for his first big pay day, elevating his game in a contract year
It has been a tale of two seasons for Maple Leafs forward Michael Bunting. He started the year a little slow, only producing 2 goals and 4 assists in 16 games - this despite playing mostly on the team's top line beside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. This slow start had him relegated to the third line at times. He was then put on a line with Auston Matthews and William Nylander. Since around that time, he seems to have really found his stride. Bunting has put up 18 points (7 goals & 11 assists) in his last 18 games. Additionally, he has been more noticeable while recovering pucks and helping to create offensive zone time.
After yesterday's afternoon game, head coach Sheldon Keefe was asked if this is the best hockey he has seen Bunting play. He responded by saying that is a hard question to answer because he has such a high standard for the Leafs' forward. His full quote is available below.
- Sheldon Keefe postgame on Michael Bunting's recent play
It has been well-documented that Bunting is in the last year of a contract, one that only carries a cap hit of $950,000. But given his recent stretch and his excellent season last year, he will likely be getting a massive raise next offseason.
Given the fact that we just saw former Leaf Trevor Moore sign a five year extension worth $21 million in Los Angeles, one would have to think Bunting could command at least that much on a long-term deal and likely more. For reference, Moore put up 48 points last season, whereas Bunting put up 61. Additionally, Moore is on pace for a 43 point season (assuming he plays 82 games) this year, where as Bunting is on pace for 58 points over 82 games.
The only way it seems plausible that Bunting is a Leaf next season is if he takes a hometown discount, which is possible, since he is from the area, fits in well within the organization and, by all accounts, enjoys playing in Toronto. But with that said, no one could blame him if he went elsewhere on a high-paying long-term deal, much like what we saw Zach Hyman do recently. Given how well he has played since signing in Toronto, I would not be surprised if a few teams throw sizeable offers at him. Having said that, I hope the two sides can find a deal that works to keep Bunts in Toronto. He's been a pleasure to have on this team.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 23 | 276 ANSWERS Leafs winger gunning for his first big pay day, elevating his game in a contract year What will Michael Buntings cap hit be next season? | ||
| Above $6 million | 7 | 2.5 % |
| $5 million - $6 million | 37 | 13.4 % |
| $4 million - $5 million | 133 | 48.2 % |
| Below $4 million | 99 | 35.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
