Toronto Maple Leafs forward and longtime leader John Tavares has officially signed a new three-year contract extension with the club, reaffirming his commitment to the team and the city he has called home since 2018. The deal, finalized earlier this week, will keep Tavares in a Leafs jersey through the 2027-28 NHL season.
The 34-year-old veteran, who previously served as captain of the team from 2019 through 2024, expressed both pride and gratitude in continuing his journey with the franchise.
“Toronto is home, and wearing the Maple Leaf is an honour I don’t take for granted,” Tavares said in a statement. “We have a special group here, and I’m excited for what’s ahead. I believe in our team and what we can achieve.”
Tavares, originally selected first overall by the New York Islanders in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft, spent nine seasons with the Islanders — including five as captain — before signing with the Maple Leafs as a free agent in July 2018.
His arrival in Toronto marked a significant moment in franchise history, signaling a shift toward championship contention. Over the past seven seasons, Tavares has been a consistent offensive force and a steady veteran presence, mentoring younger stars such as Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner.
While he relinquished the captaincy following the 2023–24 season to allow for a leadership transition, Tavares remains an alternate captain and a respected voice in the locker room. His new deal is said to include a team-friendly cap hit, underscoring his desire to help the club maintain roster flexibility in pursuit of long-term success.
General Manager Brad Treliving praised Tavares for his professionalism and unwavering dedication to the organization. “John sets the standard for work ethic and leadership,” said Treliving. “He’s an elite competitor who continues to produce on the ice and inspire those around him. We’re thrilled to have him continue with us.”
Tavares enters the 2025-26 season with 1,082 career NHL points and over 1,100 games played. As he begins this next chapter, fans in Toronto will undoubtedly look to him not only for his scoring touch but also for the experience and resilience that have made him a cornerstone of the franchise.
With the ink dry on his new contract, Tavares remains focused on the one goal that has eluded both him and the Leafs during his tenure — bringing the Stanley Cup back to Toronto.
