The news of Connor McDavid's extension was a huge blow to Maple Leafs fans around the globe, but it could actually be a best case scenario.
With McDavid locked up through the 2027-2028 season, the Maple Leafs will be able to get the most out of their second line center John Tavares, who they just re-signed to a four year extension.
Tavares will be entering his age 38 season when McDavid hits the open market in 2028, which will give the Leafs a perfect opportunity to move on from their aging forward and replace him with one of the best players in the game.
McDavid has expressed his desire to win and play meaningful hockey many times. With key players like Auston Matthews, William Nylander, Matthew Knies, Morgan Reilly and Anthony Stolarz all locked up for three years or longer, the Leafs are poised to contend for the better half of the next decade.
Toronto fits the bill of what McDavid is looking for, so there's no reason not to consider a hometown reunion a possibility once his contract expires.