John Tavares' true feelings after giving the Leafs captaincy to Auston Matthews

Tavares, who served as captain since 2019, has accepted the change gracefully, as evidenced by his family's recent show of support.

Despite no longer holding the captaincy, John Tavares is handling the news with remarkable poise. In a recent press conference, he expressed no regrets about the transition, acknowledging that Matthews was destined for the role. Tavares' acceptance of this change extends to his family and kids, who were seen sporting Auston Matthews jerseys adorned with the captain's "C" on them. The gesture highlights their support for the new leadership.

Leafs GM Brad Treliving revealed that the decision to change the captaincy was made shortly after the team's first-round playoff exit against the Boston Bruins. Treliving assured fans that Tavares will continue to wear an "A" on his jersey, maintaining his leadership role in a different capacity.

John Tavares' tenure as the Leafs' captain began in 2019, marking a significant chapter in his career with the team. He has one year remaining on his $11 million annual contract, which raises questions about his future with the club.

With a challenging season behind him, where he recorded 29 goals and 65 points in 80 games, this captaincy shift might influence the team's decisions regarding his contract status.

Tavares, who has been a central figure for the Leafs, is honored to pass the torch to Matthews. He is undoubtably a class act, and a great leader.

Source: Hockey Patrol
John Tavares speaks up for the first time since giving away the Leafs captaincy

Source: Sportsnet
'Now is the time': Maple Leafs' Tavares 'honoured' to pass captaincy to Matthews

Source: HockeyDB
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