3 reasons why Auston Matthews shouldn't take over as Toronto Maple Leafs captain this upcoming season

Rocket Richard Trophy winner Auston Matthews is the face of the Toronto Maple Leafs. Fans from all over the league watch the superstar showcase his singular offensive skills while combining solid defensive abilities.

With John Tavares heading into the final year of his current deal, calls have grown for Auston Matthews to become the Maple Leafs captain. While anointing Matthews would be the most obvious choice, it wouldn’t necessarily be the best one.

So, here are three reasons why Auston Matthews shouldn't take over as the Maple Leafs captain.

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Three reasons why Auston Matthews should not take over as Toronto Maple Leafs captain

#1 The Leafs already have a captain

As long as John Tavares is on the team, Auston Matthews should continue donning an “A” on his sweater. The fact is that Tavares is one of the most respected players in the league. He served as captain of the New York Islanders for five years before joining the Leafs.

Overall, stripping Tavares of the captaincy in his final season would make the Leafs management look terrible. It would signal the fan base that the management doesn't have any loyalty to its players. Moreover, it would send the wrong message to any free agents interested in coming to Toronto.

If Tavares leaves via free agency after this upcoming season, the Leafs management will have a perfectly reasonable excuse to anoint Auston Matthews.

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#2 Matthews is not the longest-serving Leaf

The longest-tenured player on the Leafs roster is Morgan Rielly. Rielly was drafted fifth overall in 2012.

He joined the Leafs in 2013 and has not relinquished his role as the heart and soul player for Toronto. He has been a workhorse, averaging over 22 minutes per game throughout his career.

Rielly played through some tough years, particularly 2015-16, when the Leafs finished last overall in the NHL. He has proven his commitment and dedication, making him one of the most reliable blue-liners in team history.

The 30-year-old combines veteran leadership and skill. Rielly has even dropped the gloves when needed, making him a true warrior for Toronto.

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#3 Matthews is not a heart-and-soul guy

Team captains are generally the heart and soul of their clubs. Players like Sasha Barkov of the Florida Panthers, Brad Marchand of the Boston Bruins or Sidney Crosby come to mind. While Matthews is the Leafs’ best player, he’s not the most important one.

The Leafs proved that they could win without Matthews during their first-round series against the Bruins. They played without Matthews in Games 5 and 6, pulling the series even at three games apiece.

Perhaps this year is the season Matthews becomes that heart-and-soul player the Leafs have lacked since Mats Sundin. If that’s the case, Matthews could proudly display the “C” on his jersey if and when John Tavares is no longer with the club.