The Toronto Maple Leafs are set to name a new captain for the 2024-25 season, with reports indicating that center Auston Matthews will be taking on the role. This change comes after a decision by the team to go in a different direction, with John Tavares stepping down as captain.
The move is seen as a part of Matthews’ evolution into a leadership role within the team, with Tavares reportedly supporting the decision and being actively involved in the process alongside General Manager Brad Treliving.
The decision to make Matthews the new captain follows extensive internal discussions within the Maple Leafs organization, particularly after last season’s disappointing playoff exit. The team believes that this change is crucial for their future, as Matthews is now widely recognized as the face of the franchise.
His impressive achievements, including winning the Calder Memorial Trophy, three Maurice Richard Trophies, and the Hart Memorial Trophy, have solidified his position as one of the top players in the league.
Matthews had an outstanding season, leading the league with 69 goals and amassing 107 points, along with a plus-minus rating of plus-31. These accomplishments highlight his exceptional playmaking abilities and underscore why the team feels it is time for him to take on more responsibility.
The decision to name him captain is less about any dissatisfaction with Tavares and more about the natural progression of Matthews into a leadership role as a younger player who can guide the team forward.
The Maple Leafs are also seeking greater postseason success and hope that this leadership change can inspire the team to perform better in the playoffs. Despite making the playoffs in eight consecutive seasons, they have consistently struggled to advance past the second round.
Their most recent postseason run in 2023 saw them reach the second round after defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning but ultimately falling to the Florida Panthers.
As the new captain, Matthews will be expected to lead the team to a deeper playoff run, building on his individual success to drive the team forward. The Maple Leafs are counting on this change to help them overcome their playoff challenges and achieve greater success in the coming seasons.
