Steven Lorentz's Maple Leafs Extension After Strong Start – Hockey Writers – Toronto Maple Leafs

The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly considering a one-year contract extension for Steven Lorentz after impressing with his strong start to the season. Lorentz, who signed a $775,000 contract for the 2024-25 campaign, is eligible for an extension on Jan. 1, 2025.

A Stanley Cup winner with the Florida Panthers in 2024, Lorentz came to the Maple Leafs this offseason and has fit seamlessly into the new system under new coach Craig Berube.

Map Leaves Think Lorentz Extension Already

Nick Kypreos of the Toronto Star wrote in a recent article that the striker has made a big impression in a short amount of time. Kypreos writes:

“It sounds like the Leafs have been so impressed with Steve Lorentz's start to the season that they would like to extend his one-year contract sometime in the new year,”

source – 'Idea | Mitch Marner mystery: Maple Leafs star, frustrated fans and uncertain future' – Nick Kypreos – Toronto Star – 10/17/2024

Originally brought in for a professional tryout (PTO) after his Stanley Cup-winning season with the Florida Panthers, the 28-year-old forward quickly earned a spot on the Leafs' roster. Through the first four games, Lorentz registered two points (1G, 1A), including the game-winning goal in a 4-2 victory over the New Jersey Devils.

Known for his relentless play on the left wing on the fourth line, Lorentz impressed the Leafs with his physicality, accumulating seven shots on goal, 11 hits, and seven blocked shots. His xGF of 83.2% leads the NHL among players with at least 20 5v5 minutes, further demonstrating his ability to make an impact in limited minutes.

He revealed that part of his strength is caused by not wanting to be bored by Maple Leafs fans. Undoubtedly, he quickly endeared himself to the market.

Is It Wise For The Maple Leafs To Rush Into This?

Kypreos did not say the Maple Leafs would make the deal happen on the day Lorentz is eligible to re-sign. That said, the team likes what they see and the suggestion here is that they don't want to wait too long. If you look at what he has shown this season, it is easy to understand why they love him.

The question may be, 'What is urgent?'

There is no reason for the Maple Leafs to avoid waiting until most, if not all of the season has been played. That is, unless they believe Lorentz is going to go on some kind of hot streak and put up big numbers. That doesn't seem likely given the role he plays in the team.

He has one goal and one assist in four games. If the Leafs use a small sample size to judge his overall performance and chemistry with the team, it may be key to see that 41-point pace. It far surpasses anything he has accomplished in the NHL and that level of production is likely to decrease as the games go on.

Still, there's a lot to like about his game.

Teammate William Nylander praised Lorentz, saying, “He's a good player and obviously he's won a trophy, so you always look for that kind of experience on the team.” Lorentz's old-school style fits head coach Craig Berube's vision, making him a valuable asset moving forward. If his performance continues, it seems that an extension in the new year is possible.

Can the Leafs get him signed? He made $775,000 this season and has never been hit more than $1.05 million, the contract he signed with the San Jose Sharks through 2022.