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John Tavares' Update on Maple Leafs Contract After Trade Deadline

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Mar 9, 2025 10:00 AM ET

John Tavares made his stance on his future with the Toronto Maple Leafs clear following Saturday night’s 7-4 loss to the Colorado Avalanche.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the season, the former Maple Leafs captain emphasized his commitment to the organization in his first post-trade-deadline comments.

“I love it here,” Tavares said, per The Hockey News' Evan Doerfler. "I’ve said that I want to stay, and the team wants to take its time, which I totally get.

“They know how I feel and want to make things work, so there will be time for that. Right now, we’re focused on earning a playoff spot and doing something special this year. That time will come.”

Tavares, 34, is in the final season of a seven-year, $77 million contract and will enter unrestricted free agency on July 1.

Despite the ongoing speculation about his future, Tavares stressed that his priority remains helping the Leafs finish the season strong and carrying them deep into the playoffs.

“Most importantly, I’m just focused on the task at hand, and when that time comes, we’ll get there, and we’ll work through it,” Tavares said after Saturday's loss. “Gotta get better and ready for a big game Monday.”

Though an extension does not appear imminent, Toronto would do well to bring Tavares back to Canada instead of letting him go.

The veteran has been a key part of the Maple Leafs' success this season, scoring 26 goals and 55 points in 56 games for Toronto, ranking second in goals and fourth in assists among his teammates.

The loss against the Avalanche dropped Toronto to a 38-22-3 record and 79 points, with the Leafs still trailing Atlantic Division leaders the Florida Panthers (40-21-3) by four points.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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