The Toronto Maple Leafs are running back the core but changing plenty around it. The latest occurred when news broke that the team was promoting star center Auston Matthews to captain.
Matthews takes over the role from John Tavares, who has worn the coveted "C" for the past five seasons. Assigning the captaincy to Matthews is unsurprising, but most expected it would happen next summer when Tavares finished his current contract with the Leafs.
After another early playoff exit last spring, many were calling for roster upheaval, specifically moving out a significant player from the core. Instead, the Maple Leafs have opted to keep their top talent and shift the pieces surrounding it.
President Brendan Shanahan and general manager Brad Treliving hired a new coach in Craig Berube, then revamped the blue line and goaltending through free agency. Now comes the move to elevate Matthews to captain.
Giving Captaincy to Matthews a Necessary Move For the Toronto Maple Leafs
No-movement clauses within the contracts of their core players limit the Leafs ability to move out players like Tavares and Mitch Marner. Also, trading away talent for a lesser return for the sake of change is foolish business. So changing the coach, the playing personnel of the periphery, and player leadership is better than the status quo.
Tavares was the right pick for captain in 2019 to take on leadership responsibilities until the team's young stars matured. Even if only for symbolic reasons, now was the proper time to make this move.
This coming season is the first year of Matthews' recent four-year extension. He is easily the Maple Leafs best player. He has grown into his team leadership role in recent seasons. Matthews is the face of the franchise and is one of the most recognizable players in the NHL.
Tavares has impeccably represented the team during his tenure as captain. He has been selfless, playing wing or center, a checking role if necessary, and handled himself with class and dignity on and off the ice. Being supportive of Matthews' promotion is the latest example.
Matthews is Ready For the Leafs Captaincy
Matthews has had a front-row seat in learning how to deal with the hockey-mad market of Toronto. Much like Tavares, he is adept at dealing with the media and has constantly made himself available for questioning on team-related issues.
Most importantly, Matthews leads by example on the ice. He is the top goal scorer in the NHL but has developed his defensive game since entering the league. Last season, his defensive play was recognized with a Selke Trophy nomination. He wins puck battles, blocks shots, plays in all situations and his effort can never be questioned.
In other words, he shows his teammates what needs to be done by the example he sets. His off-ice maturity has improved and he continues to commit to a franchise where he is determined to leave a legacy. Also, since Tavares is in the twilight of his career, his production is not in the same stratosphere as Matthews.
It's debatable whether the shift in leadership will make the Leafs a more successful team. Within the room, the effect on the players may be negligible. Nevertheless, it puts past failures further in the distance and symbolizes the beginning of a new era.
The Toronto Maple Leafs have chosen to meld their best player with the ultimate sign of respect, wearing the captain's "C". It's a natural fit and the correct choice. A move that is a step in the right direction to achieving greater success.