**Maple Leafs’ Chris Tanev’s Long-Term Contract Details Revealed: Friedman**
The Toronto Maple Leafs traded for pending restricted free agent Chris Tanev on Saturday, June 29, acquiring exclusive negotiating rights ahead of free agency.
In exchange for the 34-year-old defenseman, the Leafs sent forward Max Ellis and a seventh-round pick in the 2025 NHL Draft to the Dallas Stars.
According to Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet, Toronto plans to offer Tanev a six-year contract worth around $4 million per year.
Friedman, in his solo 32 Thoughts podcast on June 29, provided further insights into the trade and negotiations. He mentioned that the Stars made significant efforts to retain Tanev but ultimately, the Leafs are expected to secure him with a long-term deal.
**Chris Tanev Was Maple Leafs’ Top Target**
Prior to free agency, there were strong indications that Toronto had a keen interest in Tanev. Friedman highlighted Tanev as the Leafs’ primary target in his “Rumor Roundup” article on June 27, citing GM Brad Treliving’s preference for Tanev’s playing style and personal qualities.
Tanev’s previous four-year, $18 million contract with the Stars concluded when they were eliminated from the postseason in May. In the 2023-24 season, he recorded 2 goals and 17 assists for 19 points in 75 regular-season games. Tanev has previously played under Treliving with the Calgary Flames.
By trading for Tanev’s rights, the Leafs aimed to avoid losing him to another team in free agency. PuckPedia projects Toronto to have $19.7 million in cap space as of July 1.
**Maple Leafs GM Comments on Chris Tanev’s Trade**
Speaking from Las Vegas during the 2024 draft, Toronto’s GM Brad Treliving discussed the acquisition of Tanev. He emphasized the team’s need to strengthen their defense and their proactive approach to secure Tanev before free agency began.
Tanev, initially signed by the Vancouver Canucks as an undrafted free agent on May 31, 2010, has also played for the Flames and the Stars. Throughout his career, he has accumulated 190 points (33 goals, 157 assists) in 792 regular-season games and added 13 points (1 goal, 12 assists) in 60 playoff games.
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