Zach Hyman isn’t looking to translate his recent success into a massive payday from another organization.
The hard-working winger stated rather unequivocally in a conference call with reporters Thursday afternoon that his preference is to remain with the Toronto Maple Leafs beyond next season when his contract is set to expire.
"I would love to stay in Toronto,” Hyman said. “It's where I grew up. I want to be a Leaf for a long time."
Under normal circumstances, the 27-year-old would ostensibly welcome a crack at unrestricted free agency as soon as possible. Hyman had been enjoying a career season with 21 goals and 37 points in 51 games despite a delayed start when completing the rehabilitation process on his surgically-repaired knee ligament.