Maple Leafs set to pitch John Tavares
New York Islanders captain John Tavares is going to hear many pitches from various suitors if he reaches free agency. The Toronto Maple Leafs are preparing to go above the rest to leave a lasting impression on Tavares’ mind.
The Maple Leafs are creating a promotional video to present to Tavares, according to TSN’s Bob McKenzie. Exact details of what the video will contain hasn’t been revealed but it’s expected that a few of players on Toronto’s roster will make an appearance in the video.
Like a lot of teams, no doubt, if John Tavares gets to the UFA shopping period, and it is still an “if” at this point, TOR is believed to be putting together a promotional video for JT that may even include a cameo pitch or two from some current Leaf players.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 18, 2018
There was even some talk that the Leafs last week quickly put in a sheet of ice at the ACC, presumably as part of some video shooting.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) June 18, 2018
If Tavares and the Isles don’t have a deal by this time next week, expect JT to visit with 3-5 teams in LA. https://t.co/POoZxqkkQB
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) June 18, 2018
Toronto fans have long showcased their demands for the Maple Leafs to sign Tavares. When Tavares visited Air Canada Centre last season, fans in attendance had already customized their jerseys with Tavares’ No. 91.
Tavares isn’t allowed to speak with teams, other than the Islanders, until July 1 — the beginning of the NHL’s Free Agency period, meaning the Maple Leafs aren’t able to make an official pitch until then.
The extravagant plan is nothing new for the Maple Leafs’ brass. In 2016, Toronto became interested in signing pending free agent Steven Stamkos. The Maple Leafs called in Toronto mayor John Tory and the Chief Executive Officer of Canadian Tire as they hosted Stamkos, according to The Toronto Sun.
The meeting proved unsuccessful for Toronto. Stamkos reportedly left the meeting wanting to call Lightning general manager Steve Yzerman before he ultimately signed an eight-year extension to remain with Tampa Bay.
The “if” remains a key component of Tavares’ offseason agenda.
Tavares and his agent, as of last week, continue to work towards a contract extension with the Islanders. The Islanders’ newly appointed president of hockey operations Lou Lamoriello already began his pitch, which include his plans for the organization moving forward, to Tavares.
If Tavares decides to explore any other options, the Maple Leafs will be ready.
Other Links:
The Star: Why Signing John Tavares is an Idea the Maple Leafs Should Persue
Sportsnet: The pros and cons of the Maple Leafs signing John Tavares