Reporter discusses details of a potential John Tavares extension in Toronto
During a podcast appearance this week, Sportsnet's Luke Fox touched on the likelihood of a contract extension for John Tavares with the Maple Leafs and what his new role with the club may entail.
With the NHL season just a month away, several uncertainties still surround the Toronto Maple Leafs. The Mitch Marner situation appears to have been established, with the winger set to start the season with the team without a contract in place.
Another storyline that hasn't received as much attention is how John Tavares' willingness to relinquish the 'C' to Auston Matthews will impact his future with the Maple Leafs.
Sportsnet Hockey Insider Luke Fox shared his insights on Tavares's future with the team on the 'Behind The Play' podcast this week.
Tavares' desire to stay in Toronto and his drive to win could lead him to remain with the team if he agrees to a reasonable pay cut. Fox noted:
While Tavares's contract is likely to differ from Stamkos's $8 million per season, the adjustments Tavares may need to make with the Maple Leafs could mirror the changes Stamkos experienced in Tampa Bay when he shifted to the wing a few years back.
Fox doesn't necessarily believe Tavares will need to shift over to the wing, though, as there is still a fit for him at center, given the Leafs' clear shortage of pivots.
Tavares remains a key player for the Maple Leafs. Despite his high cap hit, he has been highly productive, with 419 points in 440 games in his tenure as a Leaf. A team-friendly contract could further enhance his impact on the Maple Leafs in the future, as well as helping the team even more with the increased cap-relief.
Source: HockeyDBJohn Tavares Statistics
| POLL | ||
5 SEPTEMBRE | 273 ANSWERS Reporter discusses details of a potential John Tavares extension in Toronto Will the Maple Leafs extend Tavares before his current contract is up? | ||
| Yes | 172 | 63 % |
| No | 101 | 37 % |
| List of polls | ||
