NHL Rumors: Auston Matthews to Replace John Tavares as Maple Leafs Captain

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The Toronto Maple Leafs will reportedly have a new captain during the 2024-25 season.

Darren Dreger and Chris Johnston of TSN reported Monday that the Eastern Conference team is expected to name center Auston Matthews as its next captain on Wednesday. John Tavares has been the captain, but Toronto apparently decided to go a different direction for the upcoming campaign.

"This is part of the evolution of Matthews as a leader and current Maple Leafs captain John Tavares fully supports the change," Dreger wrote. "Tavares has been heavily involved in the process with GM Brad Treliving."

Johnston noted Toronto has also held "extensive internal discussions" following last…