Report: Maple Leafs Want to Bring Max Domi and Tyler Bertuzzi Back, But Team is ‘Nervous Of Term’

Bertuzzi and Domi have shown a desire to continue with Toronto following their tenure with the team last season.

The Maple Leafs are eager to retain Max Domi and Tyler Bertuzzi, but negotiations might hit a snag over the contract length. Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving confirmed to The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun that the team is interested in bringing back both players, but it needs to find a balance that works for both sides.

Domi, who has expressed his desire to continue playing for his hometown team, emphasized his willingness to return and contribute to the team’s success. Both players, now 29 years old, are likely seeking longer-term contracts after signing one-year deals last summer.

However, reports suggest that Toronto is cautious about committing to extended terms. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman indicated that while Domi desires a longer contract, the Maple Leafs are apprehensive about it. Similarly, they are interested in retaining Bertuzzi but are cautious about the contract length.

Negotiations may hinge on finding a compromise regarding the term of the contracts. Despite the uncertainties, both players had solid performances last season, with Domi recording nine goals and 38 assists, while Bertuzzi scored 21 goals and 22 assists.

AFP Analytics projects Domi to receive a two-year deal with an average annual value (AAV) of nearly $3.6 million and Bertuzzi to secure a four-year contract with an AAV of around $5.3 million.