On Wednesday, the Toronto Maple Leafs made waves by announcing Auston Matthews as the team’s 26th captain in franchise history.
John Tavares, the outgoing captain who led the team for five seasons, delivered a brief speech before passing the torch to his team mate. On Wednesday, the Toronto Maple Leafs made waves by announcing Auston Matthews as the team’s 26th captain in franchise history. John Tavares, the outgoing captain who led the team for five seasons, delivered a brief speech before passing the torch to his teammate.
Johnston, speaking outside Scotiabank Arena, stated, “I think there will be some discussions now about the possibility of an extension. It’s likely a higher priority for John Tavares and his family.” He added, “When he moved back to Toronto and signed that free agent deal, it was a significant decision, especially given the numerous other opportunities he had at that time.”
It’s true. In 2018, Tavares was coming off one of his best NHL seasons, scoring 37 goals and 47 assists for an 84-point regular season. While the Leafs paid a high price, they secured an elite center in his prime for seven years. From Tavares’ perspective, he could have stayed in New York or accepted a more lucrative offer elsewhere, but he chose to chase a Stanley Cup in his hometown.
Now, with Tavares eligible for an extension and the “At that time, he didn’t have kids—those three children who were sitting in the front row today have all been born in Toronto,” Johnston noted. “It’s very important for him to find something that works, and the Leafs will need to navigate that with him.”captaincy passed to Matthews, the timing seems perfect to discuss his future with the Leafs. His dedication to the team and the city is evident, but as Johnston notes, life has changed since 2018. Since then, Tavares has had three children born in Toronto, deepening his connection to both the city and the team.
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