For the latest Leafs updates or Follow @mikeinbuffalo on Twitter After a week of presentations, unsubstantiated hints, tweets and reporters standing in parking lots waiting for limousines to arrive, Saturday will likely be T-Day, the day that free agent center John Tavares decides whether to stay with the New York Islanders or leave and sign with one of five teams; Boston, Dallas, San Jose, Tampa Bay or the Toronto Maple Leafs. The 27-year-old free agent center can get an extra year on his new contract by signing with the club that drafted him first overall in 2009, but based on their struggles the last few years, their building situation and wholesale management changeover with Stanley Cup winners Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz added in the last month, the Islanders have been scrambling to make a return to Long Island as attractive as possible to Tavares. There is no doubt that the Mississauga, ON native’s chances of winning a Stanley Cup go up exponentially if he signs with one of the five teams bidding for his services, but that all depends on what Tavares and agent Pat Brisson think is the best fit for the superstar forward. TSN’s Darren Dreger reports that Tavares, his family and representatives are still discussing and processing the options on Saturday morning. Sportsnet’s John Shannon indicates that talks have been ongoing with the six teams in the mix and as of late this morning, some teams have been eliminated, but calls to those teams have not occurred yet. Interesting note from TSN's Frank Seravelli, the Leafs have made inquiries on UFA Derek Ryan, but have not made a firm offer on the Carolina center because of the ongoing situation with Tavares.
If any news breaks on the Tavares front or anything else on the Leafs on the eve of free agency, check back for updates…..
*******
Here is the latest edition of "The Leafs Convo", please watch and subscribe to our YouTube page.and/or listen on iTunes.