Report: Maple Leafs, Zaitsev 'working towards' 7-year extension

The Toronto Maple Leafs are reportedly "working towards" a long-term extension with rookie defender Nikita Zaitsev, according to TSN's Bob McKenzie.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman adds that the deal would average $4.5 million annually.

Zaitsev will be 26 in October, when his new deal would kick in, and it would take him through his age-32 season. He's playing out a one-year, entry-level deal this season that pays him $925,000 in salary and includes up to $850,000 in performance bonuses, according to Sportsnet's Chris Johnston.

A veteran of the KHL before coming to North America, Zaitsev has played a huge role on the blue line for the rebuilding Maple Leafs. He averages a team-high 22:17 in ice time, and earned the trust of head coach Mike Babcock early on.

Zaitsev went into Thursday's game in Nashville with four goals, and picked up his 30th assist of the season in the game. He ranks first on the club in total ice time this season, at over 1,650 minutes in 75 games, and averages over 1:45 on both the power play and penalty kill.

In other words, he's been leaned upon heavily by the Maple Leafs, who have clearly come away impressed by what the Russian defender brings to the table.

If the reports are correct, Zaitsev would become the third Toronto defender signed through at least 2018-19 at over $4 million annually. Here's a look at the Toronto blue line:

(All salary information courtesy: Cap Friendly)

Defense has been the Maple Leafs' biggest weakness in a breakthrough season that may see them reach the playoffs. That Zaitsev was thrust into the role he's taken is proof that the club lacks depth at the position.

Travis Dermott (20), Rinat Valiev (21), and Andrew Nielsen (20) are in the system, but aren't quite ready for the big leagues yet.