According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the Toronto Maple Leafs have initiated discussions for a contract extension with Tyler Bertuzzi. It is early in the negotiation process, and the outcome remains uncertain. The Leafs are keen on keeping Bertuzzi and aim to prevent him from entering free agency on July 1.
Bertuzzi had expressed a desire for a long-term contract with Toronto in the previous season, as well as with other teams, but was unable to secure one. The Maple Leafs had the flexibility to sign him to a one-year deal, which both parties were satisfied with. Bertuzzi scored 21 goals and recorded 43 points in 80 regular-season games, along with four points in seven playoff games.
It’s still very early in the process to project where this will go, but the #LeafsForever have started contract discussions with pending UFA winger Tyler Bertuzzi.
— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) June 1, 2024
There is speculation that the Leafs may be considering a contract spanning four or five years, with an annual salary in the range of 4.5𝑡𝑜5.5 million.
The impact of this potential deal on other unrestricted free agents (UFAs) like Max Domi is uncertain. Domi has indicated his interest in remaining with the team and is likely seeking a salary increase as well.
Do the Maple Leafs Have a Contingency Plan in Place for Bertuzzi?
This might quash any speculation regarding the Leafs’ interest in bringing in David Perron to reunite him with his former coach Craig Berube. Perron has stated that his main focus is on securing an extension with Detroit, but he could serve as a backup option if the Maple Leafs are unable to re-sign Bertuzzi at a reasonable rate. Perron continues to exhibit the competitive edge that Berube appreciates. While he averaged 58 points over 82 games between the ages of 33 and 36, Perron’s production has declined as he progresses into the latter stages of his NHL career.
Despite this, signing Perron for approximately 5 million over 4-5 years to Bertuzzi.
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