from Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet,

Originally, the Maple Leafs hoped they could get this done for under eight figures ($10M), but those plans are at the bottom of some landfill. They accept this is going to be a massive deal. The question is: how massive?

Toronto wants this done. The Maple Leafs recognize his value, and would like certainty from him as they consider moves elsewhere around the roster. They are prepared to throw (even more) wads of cash at him.

“It would take a lot for me to want to leave Toronto,” Nylander said last August during the NHL/NHLPA Stockholm tour. Nothing he’s said or done since has made any feel differently, and while he won’t say anything publicly, he’s definitely receptive to what’s being offered.

This is a unique negotiation because of Michael Nylander. Honestly, I feel gross writing it because I hate bringing up family when it comes to this stuff. But it is a factor and why everyone is so careful in discussing where things stand. He plays a major role in these conversations and William is very loyal, as you would expect.

Again, the key principals are not talking, but there’s definitely feeling this will get done fast if there are four important yesses: team, player, agent and family.

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