Maple Leafs' John Tavares gets big $21 million contract update

Everywhere you turn, there's a Toronto Maple Leafs contract in the news.

John Tavares is no exception.

The Fourth Period's insider, David Pagnotta, has reported Tavares' desired contract value.

The veteran goal scorer is seeking a three-year, $21 million deal, per Pagnotta.

"The Leafs are hoping to lower that AAV figure and could add an extra term to offset the cap hit," The Fourth Period adds.

The sides are "in the process" of trying to get a new contract done, per the report.

Tavares will turn 35 in September and remains one of the better centers in the league.

This past season for Toronto, he had 38 goals and 36 assists in 75 games.

MORE: Jonathan Toews is returning to the NHL

Toronto is a nice fit for Tavares at this stage of his career. He doesn't need to be a superstar but can rather just do his role especially well.

The Maple Leafs have plenty to figure out. Mitch Marner looks like he's probably gone, and there's also the question of potentially paying big winger Matthew Knies.

Tavares is just one piece of the puzzle, so we'll have to see how Toronto puts the whole thing together in the end. Seems like Tavares wants to stay a part of it, which is good news for Leafs fans.

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