This change signifies an official passing of the torch in the answer to the "when" not "if" Auston Matthews will become captain. Coming off a historic 69 goal season, it's a no-brainer that the Maple Leafs chose him. This seemed to be a fairly painless transition as it was noted that former captain John Tavares was heavily involved in the process and wholeheartedly endorses the change.
Speculation now has to pick up about the future of John Tavares in the Blue and White and whether he will be sticking around to finish his current deal or if the Maple Leafs could look to dump his contract at the deadline if they so choose; Tavares is a UFA after this year.
The announcement is expected to be made official on Wednesday, August 14 at 11:00am per TSN's Chris Johnston; after 11am Matthews can officially stake his claim as the 26th captain in the storied history of the Toronto Maple Leafs.
