The John Tavares sweepstakes have officially begun.
Sunday marked the opening of the free agent negotiating window, and Tavares and his representatives, led by agent Pat Brisson, reportedly will meet with at least five teams in person in Los Angeles, in addition to the Islanders. It’s possible that list still may grow.
The free agent market opens on July 1 and only the Islanders can sign him before then.
The Maple Leafs, Sharks, Lightning, Stars and Bruins all will make pitches between now and Wednesday in an attempt to lure Tavares away from the Islanders, who selected him first overall in 2009.