In a recent segment of the Real Kyper and Bourne Show on Tuesday, Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos delivered interesting news regarding the ongoing contract negotiations between the Toronto Maple Leafs and William Nylander. According to Kypreos, there’s a positive trend suggesting that an extension might be in the cards. In fact, they may be so close, Toronto fans might get word of a finalized extension before the All-Star Break.
The speculated figure for the contract is now hovering above $11 million per season, specifically in the realm of an eight-year deal at $11.25 million annually. The hosts explored the contract’s specifics, emphasizing the advantages of frontloading the deal. Kypreos highlighted the potential for a substantial upfront signing bonus. Justin Bourne chimed in, noting that frontloading could ease future dealings with the contract.
Considering a projected increase in the salary cap, potentially exceeding $100 million, Kypreos argued that the suggested figure isn’t outrageous. It aligns with Nylander’s impressive scoring record, as he’s on pace to hit more than 100 points this season. The consensus is that Nylander, with a potential deal at hand, would be good value at that number if he can sustain his top-tier star status for at least another five seasons.
Is Nylander an $11.25M NHL Player?
Bourne highlighted Nylander’s current standing as the NHL’s fifth-highest scorer, who before tonight shared that honor with Connor McDavid. McDavid had a five-point night against the Flyers which has pushed him way up the points chart. Still, even drawing parallels to David Pastrnak’s contract, they discussed the similarities in the value of the pending deals. Pastrnak’s contract is set at $11.25 million per season.
Kypreos said of the pending extension rumors, “That’s the number, and either you like it or you don’t.”
Keeping Nylander is going to cost the Maple Leafs a pretty penny. But, that’s the unfortunate part about delaying contract negotiations with Nylander. While the proposed amount is substantial, it reflects the evolving market rate, especially with an anticipated surge in the salary cap.
