The Toronto Maple Leafs were hoping for better things when they inked John Tavares to a seven-year deal. The greatest signing of the salary cap era, Tavares was meant to be a symbol that it was acceptable for players to return to Toronto. This presented the Maple Leafs with a chance to bolster their team with a top player.
Tavares was expected to lead the Maple Leafs to the promised land by bringing a killing instinct and leadership qualities with him. The curse in Toronto was meant to be broken by Tavares, but it has only gotten worse.
Some have questioned if the Maple Leafs would ask Tavares to waive his no-movement clause, as Mitch Marner is the center of attention. Pierre LeBrun of NHL Insider clarified the situation yesterday. LeBrun claims that as of right now, no discussions have taken place regarding Tavares giving up his trade protection.
All indications are that the Maple Leafs will have to run it back one last time, despite their desire to make adjustments. Every player in the core has complete trade protection because of the contracts that Kyle Dubas distributed. The general manager's hands are currently fully tied, thus the team may have to put up with their unequal compensation distribution for another year, despite what the supporters will want to hear.
