Tavares readying for contract negotiations with Islanders

John Tavares' focus isn't yet on his imminent negotiations with the New York Islanders, but recognized Tuesday in Toronto that the process of chiseling out a new contract will begin soon.

The Islanders captain acknowledged that there is a lot to consider through the process, but restated his desire to work out an agreement to continue his stay on Long Island for many years.

"I've said it in the past: I want to be on the Island," Tavares said, via TSN. "That's where I hope everything works out. I think we all know there's a lot that goes into it more than just saying that you want to be there.

"There's negotiations (that) happen, and there's a process that goes about it. For me, it's just going through all that.

"Like I said, I haven't thought too much about it, but obviously it's coming sooner than later. But I'm just worried about playing, and trying to help this team get to the playoffs. I love playing here and obviously hope to be here."

Tavares isn't losing sight on the task at hand despite the negotiating window opening this summer, and his pending unrestricted free agency in 17 months time.

He said his group has expended too much energy working to make these final weeks count to worry about what the future holds.

"I just try to stay focused on the day-to-day, and try to make the playoffs. A lot of those things are out of my control. You know, take time after the season, maybe to assess things or see where certain things are headed."

The Islanders can leap ahead of the Toronto Maple Leafs for the final wild-card spot in the East with a win on Tuesday night.