John Tavares writes letter to Toronto Maple Leafs fans after signing new contract
It turns out the Toronto Maple Leafs and John Tavares will not be going their separate ways, after all.
After recent reports stated that the two sides were far apart on extension talks, they were obviously able to find some common ground, as it was announced this morning that the two sides have agreed to a four-year extension that will see Tavares carry a $4.38-million cap hit.
4x$4.38M https://t.co/rsvCmGKRP9
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 27, 2025
This is a very reasonable contract and suggests that Tavares wanted to remain a Maple Leaf the entire time. Coming off a 38-goal, 74-point season, the 34-year-old could have undoubtedly gotten more money on the open market.
Tavares, who grew up in the Toronto area and chose to sign as a free agent with the Leafs ahead of the 2018-19 season, penned a note to Leafs fans shortly after today’s extension was announced.
“Coming to Toronto seven years ago has been better than I ever anticipated,” Tavares said. “The challenge of helping bring the Cup back to the many generations of Leafs Fans and Leafs Nation is an incredible opportunity that pushes myself and my teammates every day. TO is an incredible place to play, and it’s an honour to pull on the Maple Leaf and wear the blue and white.
“I’m thrilled to announce that I’m committed to four more years! My family and I are excited to continue our journey here in Toronto. The best is yet to come!”
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Though his seven-year deal was considered an overpay by some, Tavares has been very good with the Maple Leafs, posting 222 goals and 493 points in 515 games. He’ll look to continue building on those totals in the coming seasons, while, even more importantly, trying to do what he can to snap the Leafs’ long-lasting Stanley Cup drought.
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