Maple Leafs Veteran Earns Praise From William Nylander

John Tavares Chose Stability Over Market Value

Tavares could have commanded a larger contract elsewhere after scoring 38 goals, tying his second-highest career mark, from the 2014-15 season.

Instead, Tavares insisted on finding a deal that worked for both sides, with his preference always being to stay put in Toronto.

"Even though I left some money out there, I've done pretty well and am still doing pretty well and get to play for an amazing club in a great city, a place where I'm from and a team that has a real opportunity to win," Tavares said. "It never really got to the point where I had to look at other options or consider it. (Toronto) really wanted me back and to continue on in helping this team and being a big part of us breaking through."

General manager Brad Treliving confirmed that other teams likely would have paid more for Tavares.

"It's a really good day, and I want to give a lot of credit first and foremost to John," Treliving said. “We would all agree there would be an opportunity for John to make a lot more money elsewhere, and his focus was staying here.”

William Nylander Praises John Tavares' Leadership

For Nylander, who signed his own eight-year, $92 million extension in 2024, Tavares’ decision underscores the sacrifices required in pursuit of a championship.

Toronto has not advanced past the second round since 2002 and remains in search of its first Stanley Cup since 1967.

“I think people forget that we, as players, also want to win,” Nylander said. “It’s tough, and the pressure in Toronto is always there, but the goal is the same: to go all the way.”