not going to get Matthews for anything less than Tavares at minimum. Most likely 12.34m. And Marner is probably going to end up 9m or a little more. Need to sign the forwards but have to get rid of Marleau and Zaitsev contract somehow.

"Fitting everyone in", just don't include UFAs...since they don't really belong to anyone. So really, forget about resigning Gardiner. Marleau is a Leaf for one more season. Leafs are going to have enough trouble manning a seven deep NHL competent defence, so Zaitsev stays too.

Matthews signs for 6 year @ 10.5 not 8. His value is lower on a 6 year for this reason and the fact he is oft-injured. That hurts his value. Leafs own the ultimate hammer and player rights.

Yep Gardiner mat be a no go. Or they sign and trade and pick something up for him. Not sure if they want him for the playoffs but he has quieted his game down. That said regular season is not playoffs

I don't see them getting out of Marleau. Zaitsev maybe....

Trade Kadri, yes I know he is probably the best 3rd line C in the NHL, but he is also one of the highest paid 3rd line C. He is better fitted being on a team who needs a 2nd line C. A 3rd line C should be in the 2 million range when you're Top 6 forwards are this talented and expensive.

Nylander and Gardner are gone, win this year baby, Mathews 8 at 12.5 and Marner 6 at 9.75.

Agreed 100%.

Why would Matthews sign a 6 year deal? He will be looking for a max contract.

Also Kapanen at 2.785??? Maybe but I think he might do a bridge deal near 3.5.

That type of thinking will simply invite offer sheets @ the 12-13M mark

And really why do we want to. They are both playing great. Gardiner walks and dermot steps up. Rosen has been tearing it up this year and same with sandin. Unless some other move is made will be zaitsev Oz and Lilly on the right.

As long as you sign them before July 1st there will be no offer sheet.