The Toronto Maple Leafs face a long season ahead, but they are already eyeing their franchise’s financial future. With several top-tier players, particularly two members of their self-proclaimed Core Four, set to become unrestricted free agents in July 2025, the Leafs are proactively seeking ways to keep veteran forward John Tavares for the remainder of his career. However, this will require a reduction in Tavares’s current salary to accommodate upcoming free agents like Mitch Marner and Jake McCabe.
According to Pierre LeBrun from *The Athletic*, the Leafs have begun early contract discussions with Tavares’s camp, represented by veteran agent Pat Brisson. “The Toronto Maple Leafs and John Tavares’ camp have had contract discussions,” LeBrun reported on Tuesday. Tavares is entering the final seasons of his seven-year, $77 million contract, which means his next deal will likely involve a significant pay cut from his current average annual value (AAV) of $11 million.
LeBrun noted, “The delicate dance here is finding a sweet spot on what a pay cut looks like from Tavares’ current $11 million AAV. They’re not there yet, but the dialogue will continue.” He emphasized that there is mutual interest in continuing their relationship, as Tavares is raising his family in his hometown and has no desire to leave Toronto.
Since joining the Maple Leafs six seasons ago, Tavares, who turned 34 in September, has averaged 78 points per 82 games. However, his playoff performance has been less consistent, with 12 goals and 12 assists in 38 appearances. Despite the team’s struggles—having advanced past the first round only once during Tavares’s tenure—both the player and the team seem eager to maintain their partnership if they can agree on suitable terms.
LeBrun added, “I don’t think there’s any rush to get something done, either, especially from the team’s perspective. Obviously, the Leafs have other important files, led by pending UFA Mitch Marner.” As they look toward the future, the Leafs are projected to enter next summer with an estimated $30 million in cap space (with the salary cap expected to rise to $92 million) but only 14 players under contract for the 2025-26 season. This complex situation highlights the balancing act the Maple Leafs must perform as they navigate contract negotiations while building a competitive roster.
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