Auston Matthews to Become Maple Leafs' First American Captain
John Tavares steps down after five seasons, endorses Matthews' leadership for the upcoming campaign.
- Matthews will be officially named the 26th captain in franchise history on Wednesday.
- He will be the first American and second non-Canadian to captain the Maple Leafs.
- Tavares, involved in the decision, supports Matthews taking over the role.
- Matthews led the NHL with 69 goals last season and has been an All-Star seven times.
- The leadership change follows internal discussions after the team's recent playoff exit.