There are several reasons for this, so let’s look them over.
Marner and Matthews Are Still Cheap
Before much of our cap space vanishes next season, the Leafs are benefitting tremendously by the offensive production of Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. They will never be this cheap again, so let’s augment our lineup of superstars while that’s the case.
It’s also worth noting that Jake Gardiner will be a UFA and Kasperi Kapanen won’t be dirt cheap either. Good problems to have.
They’re Contenders
When you have a team that is first place (or close to it) throughout the season, it’s time.