Tavares shared a message to Leafs nation as he passed the torch to Matthews as the 26th captain in franchise history.
Tavares shared a message to Leafs nation as he passed the torch to Matthews as the 26th captain in franchise history.
It’s the start of a new era in Leaf land.
The Toronto Maple Leafs officially announced Auston Matthews as the 26th captain in franchise history on Wednesday.
The club held a press conference where now-former captain, John Tavares, shared his sentiments as he officially passed the torch to Matthews. The 33-year-old detailed the thought process behind his and the team’s decision to pass on the captaincy – a role he has cherished as a Toronto, native since the start of his second season with the Leafs.
“Before my second season in Toronto, I was given the incredible honor and responsibility of being the next captain and follow in the footsteps of 24 Leaf greats,” Tavares said. “I’ve cherished every second of it, I’ve never taken it for granted, and I’ve given the captaincy everything I had every single day. It has meant the world to my family and I.”
Treliving stated that Tavares is expected to still wear an 'A' next season, maintaining a key leadership role with the club next season.
Tavares’ tenure as captain has been defined by his unwavering dedication to the team, his leadership both on and off the ice, and his deep connection to the city of Toronto. However, after months of contemplation and discussions with Maple Leafs’ president Brendan Shanahan, general manager Brad Treliving, and himself, Tavares felt the time was right to pass the torch to Matthews.
The forward emphasized that his decision was not about a decline in his abilities or a shift in his commitment to the team. He expressed that he feels more capable than ever to contribute at a high level for the Leafs going forward.
“Over the last few months, through deep discussions and thoughts with Brad, Brendan, and myself, we have come to the decision that now is the time to pass on the captaincy to Auston. When I decided to come to Toronto, it was all about the great opportunity to win because of the young, talented, and developing core,” Tavares explained. “The strength and stability of the club and the club’s belief in me to come and play a significant role in its journey to compete and win the Stanley Cup.”
“My feelings and belief in all of that haven’t changed, but I do recognize the development of our young core and where they are today, specifically Auston. This decision is definitely not about whether I’ve succeeded or failed, whether I’m capable or my time has passed, I feel stronger than ever in my ability to compete, play at a high level, and make significant contributions through my leadership.”
Clearly, the decision to hand over the captaincy is rooted in Tavares’ recognition of Matthews’ growth both as a player and a leader. He believes that Matthews is ready to take on the mantle and lead the team into the future, fully embracing the responsibilities that come with wearing the ‘C’.
“This decision is a recognition of the maturation of a person who has shown a skillset that is special, unique, and has a relentless drive to win,” Tavares said. “In that, I believe Auston can become more and that he is ready for this honor and responsibility. With me passing on the captaincy, it will allow Auston to fully embrace the leader that he is and have a greater impact on our team. I’ll be able to continue to lead the way that I do and give Auston my full support.”
As Tavares steps back from the captaincy, he does so with gratitude to the Leafs’ fanbase, who have supported him throughout his time as captain. He made it clear that his commitment to the team remains as strong as ever, and he looks forward to continuing the quest to bring the Stanley Cup back to Toronto.
“I want to thank everyone who has been a part of my captaincy and the Leafs nation for the trust and belief in me during my time as captain. I cannot wait to get started again next month and continue our work towards bringing the Stanley Cup back to Toronto.”
Tavares ended his statement by officially passing the torch: “I’m extremely honored to be here and pass on the ‘C’ to the 26th captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Auston Matthews.”
Among the notable members present for the event were former Leafs captains and icons of the club, Doug Gilmore and Wendel Clark. Current Maple Leafs Mitch Marner and Morgan Rielly were also in attendance in addition to the Matthews and Tavares family.
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