Maple Leafs Extend Tavares With Four-Year Contract

John Tavares has signed a four-year, $17.52 million contract extension with the Toronto Maple Leafs, carrying an average annual value of $4.38 million per season. The deal, which includes a full no-move clause for two seasons followed by a five-team trade list and $2 million in deferred compensation, keeps Tavares from entering unrestricted free agency. The 34-year-old center tallied 38 goals and 74 points in 75 games during the 2023-24 season, one of his best since joining the Leafs. Tavares cited his commitment to winning a Stanley Cup with his hometown team and accepted a significant discount below market value. The extension aims to stabilize the Maple Leafs amid ongoing playoff struggles and the widely expected departure of fellow core player Mitch Marner in free agency. Maple Leafs management views Tavares' decision as crucial for the team's competitive future and leadership.