Such a move would make sense for the Leafs, as Tavares continues to age and Matthews enters his prime. After all, Matthews figures to be around for much longer than Tavares at this point, and he will certainly be with the team for at least the next four seasons, while Tavares is only signed on for one more campaign with the blue and white. Leafs fans seem to largely agree with this sentiment.
In related news, Leafs general manager Brad Treliving remains coy about Tavares' status with the team. The current captain is eligible to sign an extension with the team as of today, but it appears as though those conversations have not started yet. Tavares is already 33 and will be turning 34 early int he 2024-25 season.
As such, his longevity with the team is certainly in doubt. Furthermore, his level of play has certainly declined, although captains do not necessarily need to be the best players on their teams. That is already the case with Tavares, as Matthews is clearly the better player. Could this be the year he finally takes over the captaincy?
