Pending unrestricted free agent John Tavares expressed optimism on Tuesday about finalizing a new contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Speaking to reporters during the team`s end-of-season locker clean-out day, two days after their playoff elimination by the Florida Panthers, the former captain shared that he had positive discussions with General Manager Brad Treliving and Head Coach Craig Berube regarding his future with the club.
“I`m very optimistic that it can work out where I`m back,” he stated.
Tavares has consistently expressed his desire to remain with his hometown team. Immediately following the season-ending Game 7 loss on Sunday night, he emphasized that the opportunity to play for Toronto has “meant everything” to him. When directly asked if he wanted to return, Tavares` response was unequivocally “Yes.”
He elaborated on these sentiments on Tuesday, describing his time in Toronto as “unbelievable” and voicing his eagerness to contribute to the team`s future achievements.
The 2024-25 season brought significant changes for Tavares in Toronto; after serving as captain for five years, the `C` was transferred from his jersey to Auston Matthews.
Tristan Blackwood