At 29 years old, Domi embodies the qualities of an ideal playoff player. He's physical, aggressive, and unafraid to battle in the tough areas. But Domi isn't just about rough play; he's also an excellent playmaker with a knack for winning faceoffs.
Domi's connection to the Leafs runs deep. His father, Tie Domi, was a fan favorite during his time with the team, known for his toughness and fighting skills. While Max may not be as renowned a fighter as his father, he still made his mark this season, racking up 118 penalty minutes, ranking 6th in the NHL.
As the season comes to a close, negotiations for a new contract between Domi and the Leafs are on the horizon. Both sides seem keen on continuing their partnership, but the question remains: what will it cost Toronto?
A contract with an average annual value (AAV) of $4.617 million over 3 years seems like a steal for a player who complements a generational talent like Matthews. Domi's performance this season didn't warrant a salary exceeding $5 million, making him an affordable option for the Leafs, especially if they can offload a larger contract.