Should The Toronto Maple Leafs Re-Sign Michael Bunting?

There are many questions plaguing the Toronto Maple Leafs front-office. From player personnel to staff, many decisions must be made in the coming months.

At the forefront of player questions is Toronto Maple Leafs winger Michael Bunting and if he should be re-signed or not.

This will be a major decision to be made for newly appointed GM, Brad Treliving.

As a 27-year-old, Bunting will become an unrestricted free agent (UFA) on July 1st. This gives him the right to negotiate with any team in the league.

Typically, the UFA designation comes with a higher annual average value (AAV) on a player’s contract adding another ripple to this discussion.

Should the Toronto Maple Leafs re-sign Michael Bunting?

Originally signed by the Leafs in 2021, Bunting has played in 161 games and produced 112 points since. Of those 112 points, 97 come in at even strength. His career totals come in at 187 games played with 126 points.

He’s been a very productive player since joining the Leafs and as such, will likely fetch a premium on the open market.

In his time as a Leaf, he has primarily flanked the dynamic duo of stars Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, playing on their left-wing.

Using the capfriendly “contract comparables” tool, here are some of the closest comparables.