Chris Tanev's contract with the Maple Leafs sparks controversy around the NHL

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Daniel Lucente
July 30, 2024 (10:27 PM)

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The latest contract signing between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Chris Tanev may be the straw that breaks the camel's back, as it has led to huge controversy.

The recent contract that Chris Tanev signed with the Leafs during free agency is leading many to believe this could be an attempt at abusing LTIR.

Many believe that Tanev is going to end his career by being put on LTIR, as he has been injured quite a bit lately. By doing this, the Leafs would not have any of his salary count against the salary cap, which would free money up so that they can go out and sign another player. It doesn't seem like the league may be too happy about this, and you can be sure Gary Bettman is going to be discussing this in the near future.

Gary Bettman watching every Stanley Cup contending team in the NHL abuse LTIR for cap space

The NHL set a precedent last year by allowing the Tampa Bay Lightning to do just this.

Until the NHL closes the LTIR loophole, teams are going to continue to abuse it, and I can't blame them.<

There aren't any official rules regarding LTIR and the salary cap at the moment, so the Leafs are technically not guilty yet, however, if it's determined that LTIR was brought up at all in any of their contract discussions, that's where they could face punishment. For now, we will all have to wait and see how this Tanev situation plays out, and whether he ends up going on LTIR at some point, but you best believe Gary Bettman will be discussing this issue at the next CBA bargaining sessions.

Source: The Hockey Writers
Chris Tanev's Iffy Contract Sparks Debate About NHL LTIR Rules