In his final five seasons with the New York Islanders, John Tavares served as the captain. Transitioning to the Toronto Maple Leafs, he continued to wear the ‘C’ for five of his first six seasons. However, this year brings a new adjustment for Tavares as he passes the captaincy on to Auston Matthews.
“It may be less front and centre, but a great challenge for me, great opportunity to adapt,” Tavares remarked. “There’s definitely going to be certain responsibilities that Auston [Matthews] will take on and some of that is just naturally throughout the course of the year, especially I think either with you guys in the media or through the fan base and the messaging and communicating that way.”
During a news conference in August, Tavares graciously passed the captaincy to Matthews. His three kids sat in the front row proudly wearing Matthews sweaters with the ‘C’ already emblazoned on them.
“Everything’s been really natural,” Tavares shared. “I think me and Auston have a tremendous relationship, a great amount of respect for each other.”
Fellow teammate William Nylander expressed, “Any of those two guys could be our leader. So I think it’s a lot of fun for Auston to take on that role and it’ll be nice for John to step away from that.”
Tavares, a local product, clearly cherished his time as captain, but at 34, he is facing the inevitable battle against Father Time. Despite stepping back in terms of leadership, Tavares remains determined to maintain his level of play.
“I know it will be a little bit different, but I don’t think it changes a lot of how I approach the game,” he affirmed.
The upcoming season holds high stakes for Tavares as it is the final year of his contract with the Leafs. He is hoping to earn an extension and with the 4 Nations Face-Off approaching in February, he is eager for another opportunity to showcase his skills on an international stage.
On the first day of training camp, Tavares declared himself to be “as driven as I’ve ever been.” Known for leading by example, Tavares has become more vocal since relinquishing the captaincy.
“He’s hungrier than I’ve ever seen him in my few years that I’ve been here,” said linemate Bobby McMann. “Just how he talks. I think just verbally how he’s communicating with guys, with every rep in practice, and wanting to push guys, but also wanting guys to push him. I know that in the summer he has guys up to his cottage and wants guys there to push him, wants the young guys there that got the work ethic to keep him sharp and keep him going.”
