John Tavares remains one of the NHL‘s veteran players still awaiting a new contract for next season. In the meantime, he continues to contribute on the ice for the Toronto Maple Leafs, recently scoring two crucial goals against Colorado in a road loss.
With his contract set to expire at the end of the season—one that has paid him $11 million annually—Tavares spoke with TSN about his future. He reaffirmed his desire to stay in Toronto while acknowledging the team’s approach. “I’ve stated I want to stay & the team wants to take its time, which I totally get. They know how I feel…”
Tavares made it clear that contract discussions will come later, emphasizing that his main focus is on securing a playoff spot. “There will be time for that, right now we focus on earning a playoffs spot, that time will come.” The Maple Leafs currently sit solidly in second place in the Atlantic Division with 79 points through 63 games.
Tavares originally joined the Maple Leafs in 2018 on a seven-year, $77 million deal after spending nearly a decade with the New York Islanders. While it remains unclear how much his next contract could be worth, the 34-year-old will have to navigate negotiations at this stage of his career.
Strong Season for Tavares Despite His Veteran Status
Despite being the fourth-oldest player on Toronto’s roster—behind Ryan Reaves (38), Max Pacioretty (36), and Chris Tanev (35)—Tavares has remained in top form. So far in 2024, he has recorded 26 goals and 29 assists for 55 points, making him the team’s second-leading scorer behind William Nylander (35 goals).
More Maple Leafs Set to Enter Free Agency
Tavares isn’t the only key player facing an uncertain future. Defenseman Chris Tanev is also nearing the end of his contract, along with more than ten other Maple Leafs players. Meanwhile, veteran Ryan Reaves will also need to assess his next steps as his current deal approaches its expiration.
