"Tavares wants to cry" - NHL fans have hilarious reactions to John Tavares handing over captain's shirt to Auston Matthews

The Toronto Maple Leafs introduced Auston Matthews as the team’s 26th captain. Meanwhile, former captain John Tavares took part in the handover ceremony in which Auston Matthews’ jersey with the captain’s C was unveiled.

While Tavares displayed class and composure during the press conference, some fans made light of the situation. Here is a look at some of the hilarious fan reactions:

“Lmao Tavares wants to cry,” one fan chimed in.

“Passing the torch for a first round exit… again,” another fan opined.

“Passing the choke,” a fan commented.

However, not all fans chose to poke fun at the situation. Some fans sympathized with the situation, showing their support for the former Leafs captain. Let’s take a look at what some of these fans commented:

“JT must be so embarrassed,” a fan weighed in.

“Tavares looks uncomfortable,” this fan posted on X.

“I’m embarrassed for him,” another fan said.

With Auston Matthews now named captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs, a new era begins in the team’s history, renewing hope for a Stanley Cup. With the arrival of Craig Berube behind the bench, it remains to be seen if the Leafs can turn a corner and bring home a Cup for the first time since 1967.

Auston Matthews honored to follow Tavares

Following the announcement of Auston Matthews’ captaincy, the 26-year-old superstar said, per the CBC:

“I’m incredibly humbled to be named captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs.”

The words echoed the significant role and responsibility that Matthews will now be entrusted with in Toronto. Thus far, Matthews has said everything as expected of someone in such a lofty position:

"I'm honoured to follow in John's footsteps and continue our work in leading this team along with so many other leaders within our dressing room.”

Tavares wore the C on his chest for five seasons. While he played the role admirably, the team felt that a change was needed. That change involved passing the torch to a younger generation of stars.

Matthews concluded:

“This team, this city, and our fans mean everything to me. We all embrace the history of this franchise, and we are determined to get the job done."

Getting the job done this season begins with training camp. The preseason is set to get underway in less than a month, with players reporting to the team’s training facilities. Matthews and Co. are expected to be in top form as fans look to see the Toronto Maple Leafs make a strong postseason run.