Insider Chris Johnston predicts the next contract for John Tavares and Mitch Marner

The Toronto Maple Leafs have made their second major leadership change of the offseason, naming Auston Matthews as the new captain, replacing John Tavares, who held the role since 2019. Matthews becomes the 26th captain in the franchise's history.

This change follows the Leafs' decision to fire their former head coach, Sheldon Keefe. 2019 Stanley Cup winner Craig Berube has taken over as the new head coach in Toronto.

Tavares, who is entering the final season of the contract he signed in 2018 under former GM Kyle Dubas, can become a free agent in the summer of 2025. With the captaincy now handed to Matthews, there's speculation about whether Tavares will want to re-sign with the Leafs.

According to NHL Insider Mike Johnston, who is also a former Leafs forward, Tavares is likely to sign an extension for significantly less money than his current deal. Johnston predicts that Tavares could agree to a three-year extension as early as this fall, allowing him to continue his role as a "quiet pro" with the team.