John Tavares made headlines across Toronto this week—not because he’s leaving, but because he’s staying. The Toronto Maple Leafs‘ former captain signed a four-year contract extension with an average annual value of $4.

TORONTO -- John Tavares wanted to remain with the Toronto Maple Leafs, and was willing to take less money to ensure it happened. The 34-year-old forward signed a four-year, $17.52 million contract on Friday. It has an average annual value of $4.38 million.

John Tavares got his wish. The Maple Leafs re-signed their former captain to a four-year, $17.52 million contract on Friday, a league source said. The deal will keep Tavares, who turns 35 in September, at home in Toronto until 2029.