The Best and worst moves by the Toronto Maple Leafs this offseason
By Edward Eng
Best Move: The Naming of Auston Matthews as Team Captain
Many probably expected it to be a long time coming, but Auston Matthews was finally handed the keys to captaincy for the team this offseason, as he takes over from long-serving John Tavares.
Some might have expected it to come the upcoming year instead when Tavares contract is set to expire at the conclusion of the 2024-25 season. But with the drastic change in management personnel this offseason, the timing couldn’t have come at a better time to get the entire team a new inspiring, refreshing start.
With Matthews’ voice in his new role in the locker room, it could significantly help build on the team’s renewed chemistry and focus for the upcoming year as a result. (All stats from NHL.com and salaries from puckpedia.com)
On top of that, Matthews has been already front and center leading the team in many ways for the past few seasons. With his exceptional offensive abilities, now combined with his elite defensive prowess, together with the new hitting element he has added to his dynamic game, he practically could lead by example whenever he takes the ice with his teammates.
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Added to the fact that he always seems to know exactly what to say and make those around him better, this is exactly what the team needs to get them to the next level and beyond.