The Toronto Maple Leafs have reportedly taken a step toward ensuring forward Nazem Kadri remains with the organization for the foreseeable future.

The Maple Leafs have opened negotiations with Kadri on a potential long-term contract, Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet reports.

The team opened talks with an offer close to five years and $22.5 million, according to the report.

Kadri signed a two-year deal with the Leafs in September 2013.

He has 26 points in 45 games after registering 20 goals and 30 assists last season.