The transition of the Toronto Maple Leafs captaincy from John Tavares to Auston Matthews has been interpreted by some as the first sign that the veteran center will not be back after next season, but a few whispers on the subject are saying that would be drawing the wrong conclusion.

Tavares is certainly not the same player when he signed a seven-year, $77 million deal in 2018, but he is still very effective. The Leafs are apparently interested in bringing him back, but it would likely have to be at less than half of his current $11 million salary.

What does not appear to have changed is any long-term plans regarding Mitch Marner. GM Brad Treliving might still be open to trading the pending free-agent winger, but Marner’s no-movement clause is a roadblock to that. There have been no substantive hints of the two sides are discussing an extension, so this situation is likely to go on all season.

more to come

Join the Discussion: » 9 Comments » Post New Comment

» Four Teams That Could Be In On Fowler

» Friedman: Four Year Extension for Larsson

» Is Giordano On Hold Because Of The Leafs Limbo With Hakanpaa? Mon's Buzz

» Bruins Eyeing Vet Goalie Martin Jones

» Isles Playoff Fate Tied To Sorokin’s Status