The Maple Leafs traded a seventh-round pick and the rights to an expiring RFA (who Dallas did not issue with a Qualifying Offer) for the signing rights to Chris Tanev from the Dallas Stars.

They have signed him, a few hours ahead of the noon start to free agency on July 1 for six years at $4.5 million.

MAPLE LEAFS SIGN DEFENCEMAN CHRIS TANEV | Toronto Maple Leafs
The Toronto Maple Leafs announced today that the hockey club has signed defenceman Chris Tanev to a six-year contract. The average annual value of the contract is $4.5 million. Tanev, 34, skated in 56 games for the Calgary Flames before being acquired by the Dallas Stars last season. With the

The term takes him to age 41 when it expires which would make him a truly exceptional player if he puts in a full NHL season at that age.

For now, he is the best defensive defender in the NHL over the last few years. He had a down season in Calgary last year, but rebounded strongly after the deadline deal sent him to Dallas. He also excelled in the playoffs for the Stars.

Welcome home, Chris, hope you play to 45.

Update: