Auston Matthews was officially named the 26th captain in Toronto Maple Leafs history on Wednesday, expressing strong emotions about his new role.
“I got chills, honestly,” Matthews said, reflecting on taking over the captaincy from John Tavares. “I’m so honored and humbled. Since being drafted here eight years ago, you realize how special it is to play for the city of Toronto, to wear the Maple Leaf on your chest every single night.”
Matthews added, “It just means the world to me. I look forward to continuing our journey to obviously get to the top of the mountain and win the Stanley Cup and bring it back to Toronto.”
John Tavares, who served as Toronto’s captain since 2019, will wear an “A” this coming season. General manager Brad Treliving mentioned that discussions about changing the leadership group began early in the offseason, and Tavares agreed with the decision.
“This decision is definitely not about whether I’ve succeeded or failed, whether I’m capable, or that my time has passed,” Tavares stated. “I feel stronger than ever in my ability to compete, play at a high level, and make significant contributions through my leadership.”
Tavares continued, “This decision is a recognition of the maturation of a person who has shown a skill set that is special, unique, and who has a relentless drive to win. In that, I believe Auston can become more and that he is ready for this honor and responsibility.”
Tavares is entering the final season of the seven-year contract he signed with Toronto in 2018. Matthews, meanwhile, will begin the first season of a four-year extension that makes him the highest-paid player in the league with an average annual value of $13.25 million.
“I think that’s the goal – to be a Leaf for life,” Matthews said. “To win here with my teammates, for the city. I’ve loved every minute of being a Toronto Maple Leaf. It’s such a tremendous honor, I can only take it one day at a time, but I hope that’s the case.”
Drafted first overall by Toronto in 2016, Matthews leads the NHL with 368 goals since then. He has won the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year, earned three “Rocket” Richard titles, and was named MVP in the 2021-22 season after achieving his first of two career 60-goal seasons. Matthews is 53 goals away from surpassing Mats Sundin as the Leafs’ all-time leader in goals.
