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NHL Rumor: Top insider speculates Jake McCabe's contract extension with Maple Leafs
Elliotte Friedman suggested on Friday that the Maple Leafs might extend Jake McCabe’s contract. Speaking on Sportsnet's "32 Thoughts," Friedman reported ongoing talks between McCabe’s camp and Toronto. McCabe’s deal ends soon, and Friedman believes he fits the team’s needs well.
"I believe they've had some conversation with Jake McCabe about extending him," Friedman said. "I think he's perfect for them. I think he's exactly the kind of player they need. I don't know where this is going to go, but I do believe they've had some conversations about extending McCabe. We'll see."
McCabe has been a key player for Toronto. The Maple Leafs traded for him from the Chicago Blackhawks in February 2023. They paid 50% of his salary and received Sam Lafferty and draft picks. Chicago got a conditional first-round pick and other assets in return.
McCabe has nine goals and 24 assists in his 94 games with the Maple Leafs. He also had 219 hits last season, the second-highest on the team. His average ice time was 20:39 per game, ranking him third among Toronto’s defensemen.
McCabe’s playoff performance has also been strong. He has one goal and two assists in 18 playoff games with Toronto. During the 2023-24 playoffs against the Bruins, he averaged 21:24 of ice time, one of the highest on the team.
If a new deal isn't reached, McCabe will become a free agent on July 1, 2025. Friedman’s report shows that talks are underway. McCabe’s future with the Maple Leafs is important for the team’s planning.
Analyst advocates trading Jake McCabe to maximize Leafs' value
James Tanner from Editor in Leaf sees defenseman Jake McCabe as the Maple Leafs' best trade asset. Tanner thinks now is the right time to trade McCabe. With a $2 million cap hit, he is a valuable option.
"At the peak of his value and with the best reputation he's ever had since breaking into the NHL over a decade ago, and with an absolute sweet-heart of a deal, the Leafs should capitalize and trade Jake McCabe right now," Tanner wrote on Aug. 30 (via editorinleaf.com).
"McCabe is a good player and a very solid second pairing player. He is versitile, he hits, and he's good defensively."
The Maple Leafs' $1.2 million cap space allows them to sign a low-cost free agent. While Tanner suggests trading McCabe, other options are also being considered. Toronto is looking at ways to improve its roster for the upcoming season.
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