BREAKING: The Maple Leafs announce they have signed young STAR player for 7 years.

BREAKING: The Maple Leafs announce they have signed two KEY players

Early reports from Pierre LeBrun, NHL insider, confirm the Toronto Maple Leafs have officially announced Zaitsev’s deal reported a while back: 7 years and $4.5 M AAV. Zaitsev’s deal includes $11 million in bonuses.

The 25 year-old blue liner had 4 goals and 36 points in his rookie campaign and suited up for four of the Leafs six playoff games.

Maple Leafs finally announce Zaitsev's deal reported a while back: 7 years and $4.5 M AAV
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) May 2, 2017

No signing bonus, $4.5M salary in each of year 4 (potential lockout year) and year 5. $2M SB and $2.5M salary in each of year 6 and year 7.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) May 2, 2017

Following this statement, Pierre LeBrun also confirmed the signing of Ben Smith to a one-year deal worth $650K. Smith meets criteria for expansion draft exposure.