Zach Hyman and the Maple Leafs Still Far Apart on New Contract Terms

Toronto Maple Leafs fans are hoping that Zach Hyman comes around on whatever big contracts he’s hoping to score in free agency and take a team-friendly deal with the team. According to recent updates, that’s not likely to happen. Reports are that the two sides are still far apart, even with a player like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins signing for less to stay with the Edmonton Oilers.

As per Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, “Barring a hometown discount or a change in direction of negotiations, Hyman seems in line to be a UFA.” He adds when speaking on the FAN 960’s The Big Show, “Sounds like he’s testing the market. I heard they were significantly far apart.”

This isn’t great news for Leafs fans, but probably also not a huge shock. Over the past couple of weeks, Leafs Nation has been gearing themselves up for life without Hyman. They’ve been contemplating how the team will replace him and where they should look to find a similar style asset.

Could Things Change Between Hyman and the Leafs?

It’s not all bad news when it comes to Hyman and the Maple Leafs. “There is still time for the situation to change,” Sportsnet writes. Hyman could test the free agent market and circle back to the team. And, because the Leafs aren’t likely to sign Hyman before the NHL Expansion Draft regardless of his decision, there’s time for people’s perspectives to change. Better yet, the Maple Leafs could sign Hyman after Seattle picks its team and before the opening of free agency.

One thing to keep in mind is that the Leafs will likely have to make additional moves for a signing to occur. They probably don’t have the cap space to simply sign Hyman.

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