In today’s NHL rumors rundown, William Nylander has informed the Toronto Maple Leafs of his intentions as the team goes through a retooling and changes its general manager this offseason. Meanwhile, there is a big update in the battle between John Tavares and the CRA over a major tax dispute. Finally, how long will the Colorado Avalanche be without Cale Makar?
As the Maple Leafs try to figure out their next steps, will one of the team’s stars remain on board with the plan? And, how far off are the Leafs from turning things around?
Nylander Commits—With One Condition
Nylander has made his stance clear as the Maple Leafs head into a pivotal offseason. According to reports, the star winger wants to remain in Toronto—but only if the organization stays committed to contending for a Stanley Cup. If the team shifts toward a full rebuild, his outlook could change.
As per a report by Jonas Siegel and Chris Johnston of The Athletic, Nylander has told the organization he’s good with a retool.
Nylander was quoted as saying:
“Unless it was a full rebuild and we were going to get rid of everybody, then it’s a different story. Then you take that conversation then. But just to do a retool or whatever, I don’t even know, but I mean, I still want to be here, yeah.”
source – ‘William Nylander wants to stick with the Maple Leafs – if they retool’ – Jonas Siegel and Chris Johnston – The Athletic – 04/02/2026
The message is simple: keep pushing to win, and he’s all in. Anything less could open the door to difficult conversations about his long-term future with the franchise.
With Nylander still on board and if Auston Matthews remains committed, the Maple Leafs do have a solid foundation from which to make changes and hopefully correct course for next season. If they choose their goaltending tandem (that means trading one of the three) and emerging young talent takes another step forward, the Leafs will focus on finding a second-line center and a top defenseman.
Toronto lacks a true No. 1 blueliner, which will lead to questions about Morgan Rielly’s future. So too, relying on John Tavares as the second-line center is likely not going to cut it. A slow start in 2026-27 might quickly shift the team’s trajectory. However, if they can get off to a good run, the Leafs could surprise.
Tavares Wins Key Step in CRA Dispute
According to the National Post, off the ice, John Tavares scored a legal win in his ongoing dispute with the Canada Revenue Agency. A judge dismissed the federal government’s request to question an MLSE representative, ruling the line of questioning should have taken place earlier.
Related: Brad Treliving’s Worst Moves as Maple Leafs General Manager
The case stems from Tavares’ 2018 contract, which included a $15.3 million signing bonus. His legal team argues the payment qualifies as an inducement to return to Canada and should be taxed at a lower rate. The CRA disputes that claim, treating it as regular income—leaving Tavares potentially on the hook for roughly $8 million CAD.
The case remains ongoing.
Avalanche Playing It Safe With Makar
The Colorado Avalanche did not play well on Wednesday night, which might happen with one of the league’s top defensemen sidelined. Cale Makar is out with an injury. The star defenseman is expected to miss a handful of games.
Head coach Jared Bednar has downplayed the severity of the situation, noting that the injury is not long-term. Insiders also suggest Makar should be ready for Game 1 of the playoffs. With the postseason approaching, Colorado is taking no risks, ensuring their Norris Trophy candidate is fully healthy when it matters most.
