Reports have emerged that the Toronto Maple Leafs will make an on-ice leadership change. Multiple reports have emerged that the Leafs will name Auston Matthews captain of the team. He will replace John Tavares as the team’s captain. Matthews is expected to be named the franchise’s 26th captain in franchise history.
Expect the Toronto Maple Leafs to name Auston Matthews captain on Wednesday. This is part of the evolution of Matthews as a leader and current Maple Leafs captain John Tavares fully supports the change. Tavares has been heavily involved in the process with GM Brad Treliving.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) August 12, 2024
Report: Maple Leafs to Name Auston Matthews Captain
Matthews would become the team’s first American captain in franchise history. The 29-year-old would become the team’s second non-Canadian to be team captain. Swedish star Mats Sundin was the first non-Canadian player to don the “C” in 1997. Sundin held the post from 1997-2008.
Matthews is a former first overall selection from the 2016 NHL Draft. The San Ramon, Calif. native has scored 368 goals and 281 assists in 562 career games. He is coming of a season where he notched 69 goals and 38 assists over 81 games. Matthews has six 40-plus goal seasons in his eight-year career.
Last season, Matthews bagged the Maurice Richard Trophy. He also won the Calder Trophy in 2016-17 as well as the Hart Trophy and Ted Lindsay Award in 2021-22.
What It Means
It seems like the Maple Leafs are clearing the way for Tavares’ exit or at least a reduced role. Tavares is entering the final year of his big contract with his hometown team.
TSN’s Darren Dreger said that Tavares is on board with the decision and has been involved in the move with Maple Leafs General Manager Brad Treliving. Tavares was also a captain with the New York Islanders before taking the post in October 2019.
The move does make some sense as Tavares faces an uncertain future with the franchise. He’ll likely either move on or take a reduced salary at the end of the season when he becomes an unrestricted free agent.
Matthews just signed a four-year, $53 million contract that will kick in at the start of the season. He figures to be in Toronto’s plans for a long time.
Main photo by: Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports
