from Mark Zwolinski of the Toronto Star,

The word “future” carries more meaning to Nazem Kadri now than the immediate concern of signing a long-term deal with the Leafs.

Kadri and his agents remain in talks with the Leafs regarding a new contract, and if those talks finish with a multi-year extension, they will bear an added responsibility for the 24-year-old centre — leadership.

In fact, leadership has been a mixed bag for the Leafs over the past few seasons, and it wouldn’t be a stretch of the imagination to put Kadri in line for a role as an assistant or even team captain if he signs long term in Toronto.

“It’s something you think about a bit right now,” Kadri said as the Leafs wrapped up a third straight day of practice Wednesday in preparation for Thursday’s home game against the Flyers.

“Being a young guy, you want to take steps in the right direction. I’ve had that (leadership) role before in junior, so if it comes, I hope I’m in the right shoes to do it.”

continued