In the coming years, both Mitch Marner and John Tavares will be free agents. Nylander's big salary, combined with Auston Matthews', will make it hard for Treliving to allow raises for both Tavares and Marner.
However, a new development suggests that Tavares could accept a pay reduction to continue to be the Maple Leafs' captain.
Tavares Speaks Up About his Future with the Leafs
In a recent interview, Tavares reiterated that he too, wants to stay in Toronto.
Per Luke Fox:
"John Tavares is a year and a half away from free agency himself. The captain reiterates that he too wants to stay in Toronto."
Considering Nylander and Matthews' big salaries, saying that he wants to stay with the Leafs suggests that he'll be willing to accept a salary decrease to remain with his team.
If players want to keep the core intact, they'll need to make consessions during contract negotiations.
Also, Tavares' production is far from enough to be paid $11 million a year. Don't be surprised if the captain ends up staying for a few years at four or five million a year.
Playing in Toronto comes with a lot of financial opportunities, maybe more tha anywhere else in the NHL. If he uses that to his advantage, he can make a lot of money, even if he agrees on a smaller number with the Leafs.