“They think Tanev is great,” Friedman remarked. Therefore, I think Tanev might be the right person if they truly are prepared to do something for someone else that they might not be willing to do for someone else. We’ll see how everything turns out.

Friedman is talking about the term, or duration, of the contract, which is 34 years old. It’s common knowledge that the Leafs are reluctant to provide aging players long-term contracts. Max Domi (age 29) and Tyler Bertuzzi (age 29) are two examples.

Tanev is a talented player, therefore they might make an exception for him given their goal to strengthen the backend. Tanev hails from Toronto.

Friedman remarked, “They really like Tanev.” Tanev might be the right person, in my opinion, if they are truly willing to do something for someone else that they might not be willing to do for someone else. We’ll see how everything works out.

Friedman is referring to the contract’s term, or its duration, at 34 years old. It’s no secret that the Leafs are wary of giving aging players long-term contracts. Tyler Bertuzzi (29), and Max Domi (29) are two examples.

But, considering their aim to strengthen the backend and Tanev’s skill level, there might be an exemption for the resident of Toronto.

Considering Treliving’s background, I believe Tanev to be his favorite man. He knows him, likes him personally, and enjoys his game. Yes, there is always a chance of injury and a factor of risk, but I believe the Leafs are trying to be very cautious when using the term. Although they have exercised caution when dealing with Bertuzzi and Domi, they truly want to address their blue line.

It’s also no secret that Treliving is interested in Tanev—during the season, he made many attempts to acquire the right-handed defenseman in a package that also included Nikita Zadorov. Since neither player has any affiliation with the Flames, he may revisit the deal, which as we all know fell through at the last hurdle because of the high asking price.

“Zadorov and Tanev are known to the general manager in Toronto. He made an attempt to get them together last year, but he was unable to come to an agreement. Bringing the two of them together was going to come at a significant cost, and their relationship with the Flames didn’t work out.

Tanev just inked a four-year, $18 million contract in October 2020 with the Calgary Flames and Treliving.With an average annual worth of $4.48 million per season, AFP Analytics projects Tanev’s next contract to be a three-year, $13.44 million agreement.He plays excellent defense and has excellent shot-blocking skills. Despite his upcoming 35th birthday in December, he was the Flames’ main player until being traded to Dallas, where he was assigned to the #1 penalty kill unit.

The 14-year-old veteran scored two goals and provided 17 assists during the 2023–24 regular season while playing for both the Flames and Stars. He also added two assists in 19 postseason games played in Dallas. Tanev, who plays with energy in the defensive zone, would be a great match for a Treliving-led Maple Leafs squad despite his advanced age. He is a highly influential player. Although the Leafs aren’t anticipated to close this door anytime soon, it wouldn’t be the slightest bit strange if Treliving tried to make a reunion happen.