Crucial Insight on John Tavares' Future Contract with Maple Leafs Revealed by Insider

When Tavares joined the Toronto Maple Leafs in the summer of 2018, he effectively committed to the team for the rest of his playing days. The tenacious veteran made his Leafs debut at the age of 28, recording career-highs of 47 goals and 88 points. After seven years, we are left wondering whether and when the two parties will agree on a new contract. His seven-year contract was supposed to last him through his age-34 season.

Although the 34-year-old has an AAV of $11 million, it is generally assumed that his new contract will not even approach that amount, and given that he will be 35 by the 2025-2026 season, it should be brief.

The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta shares this opinion, stating that he does not think Tavares' next contract will be for five to seven years. It will be a short-term agreement, probably lasting no more than three years, he said on Tuesday.

However, you would think that they would reach a compromise and work out a three-year agreement if they both wish to reach a friendly agreement. Tavares will continue to produce in his 35th, 36th, and 37th seasons, and it would provide him with the long-term financial stability that all players strive for in their final years.

Pagnotta initially appeared unsure when asked if there was a chance that both Mitch Marner and Tavares would complete their deals this season, but he thinks Tavares would be more motivated than the former:

An extension for Tavares will likely be completed in-season if Brad Treliving and Tavares' camp can reach a compromise in the near future. It will all depend on whether the Leafs can provide their former captain with an alluring contract to stay with them. We know they have been in communication since the end of the summer and that both parties want to get back together.

His performance has deteriorated in some areas, and it was concerning that he scored the fewest points during his first eight games of the season. Tavares' confidence was undoubtedly boosted by the three-goal outburst, and the Maple Leafs saw a significant increase in on-ice performance.

As the season progresses, Tavares will continue to see high-end minutes with plenty of scoring potential. He currently has five goals and nine points in nine games, averaging 16:32 TOI.