Jake Gardiner signs $20 million deal with Maple Leafs

TORONTO – Jake Gardiner and the Maple Leafs have agreed to deal that will keep the restricted-free-agent defenceman in Toronto for the long haul.

The 24-year-old will make US$20.25 million over the course of the five-year contract, a cap hit of $4.05 million, the Leafs confirmed Tuesday.

Gardiner had 10 goals and 21 assists in 80 games this past season.

Gardiner, drafted 17th overall by Anaheim in 2008, made his NHL debut with Toronto in 2011.

The six-foot-two, 184-pounder has 17 goals and 48 assists in 167 games.