Tavares decision still looms as deadline for 8-year extension passes

All remains quiet in the John Tavares sweepstakes.

The deadline to sign a max eight-year extension with the New York Islanders came and went early Sunday morning with no word out of Tavares' camp regarding a decision on where he'll play next season, according to Chris Johnston of Sportsnet.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman confirmed Sunday morning that Tavares did not sign Saturday night:

Officially, there is confirmation John Tavares did not sign last night...he is now eligible for maximum a seven-year deal.

- Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) July 1, 2018

New York was the only team able to offer the maximum eight years leading up to the July 1 deadline, a distinct advantage over all other clubs vying for the superstar center's services. With no such deal reached, all suitors are on an even playing field.

While Tavares can still sign a seven-year contract to remain with the Islanders after testing the market, the prevailing sentiment leading up to his free agency was that he'd take advantage of the eight-year option if he intended to re-sign.

Tavares' decision had fans and experts on the edge of their seats for most of Saturday, but with mum being the word surrounding the prized unrestricted free agent, his highly anticipated decision will have to wait until Sunday at the earliest.

It was reported Saturday that Tavares had yet to inform any teams that they were out of the running.

Tavares previously narrowed the field of potential teams down to the Islanders, Boston Bruins, Dallas Stars, San Jose Sharks, Tampa Bay Lightning, and Toronto Maple Leafs.

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