Chris Johnston an NHL insider and analyst believes the Toronto Maple Leafs six-year deal with Chris Tanev is a risky one.
The Maple Leafs signed Tanev, who was one of the top free agents available, to a six-year $27 million deal. Although players get six-year deals all the time, Tanev is 34, turning 35 on December 20.
The defensemen also has a history of injuries, which is why Johnston believes it is a risky singing, but one Toronto needed to take.
The contract is long and risky. But, this was exactly the type of player the Leafs needed and exactly the one who was available.
Assuming health, which you can’t always assume health for a 34-year-old who has had a series of injuries, I like it short-term for the Leafs for sure,” Johnston said on The Chris Johnston Show on July 4.
Although the contract is long for a 34-year-old, the Maple Leafs did that so they could get his yearly salary lower. But, if he does get hurt as he has been in his career, the length of the contract could come back to hurt Toronto.
Tanev has skated in 792 regular season games recording 33 goals and 157 assists for 190 points. But, the Toronto native is known for his defense and shot-blocking ability.
Leave a Reply