Jake McCabe and the Toronto Maple Leafs have reportedly started preliminary talks during the summer regarding an extension, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported, during the latest episode of 32 Thoughts: The Podcast. Friedman didn’t conclude where things will go regarding the contract discussions, but said he’s aware that the two parties have discussed the matter this summer.

“I believe they’ve had some conversation with Jake McCabe about extending him,” Friedman said. “I’m a big McCabe fan. I think he’s perfect for them. I think he’s exactly the kind of player they need. I don’t know where this is going to go, but I do believe they’ve had some conversations about extending McCabe. We’ll see.”

It makes total sense why the Leafs have already initiated extension talks with McCabe because he has been a perfect fit on their blueline since arriving midway through the 2022-23 season via a trade with the Chicago Blackhawks. He has been a primarily second-pairing guy where he has displayed a strong two-way game with a willingness to play the body and be a force defensively while being willing to contribute offensively.

Last year, McCabe formed a strong partnership with Simon Benoit to become Toronto’s’ go-to shutdown pair, which saw the second-most minutes at 5v5 on the team, both in the regular season and in the playoffs. Beyond his normal partner, McCabe was also really versatile in his ability to be moved up and down the lineup, on either side of the ice and still be productive. All of these qualities, combined with his attitude and leadership and it’s no wonder he is reported to be a beloved figure behind the scenes.

McCabe amassed a career-high 28 points (eight goals and 20 assists) in 73 games played along with 219 hits and 129 blocks. He added a goal in seven playoff games, the only Leafs blueliner to find the back of the net in their first-round series matchup against the Boston Bruins. His strong play was also highlighted by his underlying numbers during the regular season at 5v5:

What a potential extension for McCabe could look like remains to be seen at this time, but the number will surely be higher than the combined cap hit of $4 million split evenly between the Leafs and Blackhawks. Given that this will be his last chance at a considerable payday, it would not be a surprise to see his next cap hit hover at no lower than $5 million a season though that number could go down if the Leafs opt to give him a longer deal.

It is worth noting that McCabe switched agencies over the summer which is a good tell that he is trying to get a paid on his next contract. Toronto will need to consider how his body will age over the next few years given that he will soon turn 31 and physical players typically don’t age well in the latter stages of their careers.

Nonetheless, it is encouraging to hear that he and the Leafs have initiated extension talks over the summer and there appears to be an interest in continuing the partnership moving forward. We shall see how this all shakes up in the coming weeks and months but it is clear the ball is already in motion.