Insider discloses the real reason behind Toronto's captaincy switch

This move comes on the heels of the team's recent playoff disappointment and the arrival of new head coach Craig Berube.

In a surprising development, the Toronto Maple Leafs will soon officially announce Auston Matthews as their new captain, replacing John Tavares. According to multiple sources, this major change is rooted in several factors that have influenced the team's decision.

The primary reason, as reported by Chris Johnston, is linked to the Maple Leafs' recent playoff loss to the Boston Bruins. The team's performance in the playoffs, combined with the new direction under head coach Craig Berube, who is expected to want a leader of his own choosing, played a critical role in this decision.

Additionally, Tavares is nearing the end of his contract, while Matthews recently signed a significant extension, making him a logical choice for the leadership role in this new phase for the team.

With the NHL season fast approaching, the spotlight will soon be on Matthews as he steps into his new role. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to hear from both Matthews and Tavares about this major shift in the Maple Leafs' hierarchy and what it means for the team moving forward.

The 26-year-old will be the 26th captain in Maple Leafs history, marking the first American captain and just the second non-Canadian captain after Swede Mats Sundin.

Auston Matthews replaces 33-year-old John Tavares, who has been captain since October 2019 and is entering the final year of his seven-year, $77 million contract. Matthews, on the other hand, will start his first season under a new five-year, $53 million deal.

Source: Hockey Patrol
Insider reveals reason for captaincy change in Toronto