Top 3 John Tavares trade destinations after veteran reportedly cedes Leafs captaincy to Auston Matthews

As per ESPN, Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares has ceded the club’s captaincy to Auston Matthews. While the news was expected, the timing was somewhat surprising.

Nevertheless, the Maple Leafs now face a dilemma. Keeping John Tavares on the team following his demotion could open the door to a situation similar to the one the Los Angeles Kings faced with Dustin Brown.

The Leafs might consider trading John Tavares as he enters the final year of this seven-year megadeal signed in 2018.

With that in mind, here’s a look at three potential trade destinations for the reportedly soon-to-be former Toronto Maple Leafs captain.

Top 3 trade destinations for John Tavares

#3: Pittsburgh Penguins

Penguins’ GM Kyle Dubas played a key role in naming John Tavares captain in 2019. The relationship between Tavares and Dubas, while the latter was the Leafs’ GM, was known to be a highly positive one. So, a reunion between Dubas and Tavares would not be out of the question.

The Penguins are looking to keep their competitive window open as long as possible. Adding Tavares gives the Penguins the flexibility they need as the club looks to shore up its center depth, especially with Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby betting older.

Tavares could slot into the third line or slide into the wing with Malkin. Moreover, the Penguins gain another veteran leader who can meaningfully contribute to the club.

#2: Chicago Blackhawks

The Blackhawks have made no secret about surrounding future captain Connor Bedard with as many veteran leaders as possible. Veterans like Nick Foligno have been pivotal in supporting Bedard’s development.

As such, John Tavares fits that mold. Tavares would not only become the club’s second-line center but also become another role model and mentor for Bedard. Additionally, the Blackhawks have the cap space to take on most of Tavares’ contract. That situation facilitates a move for the Leafs.

#1: New York Islanders

A reunion with the New York Islanders seems almost inevitable. Tavares was the Isles’ captain for several seasons. He was also the club’s first-overall pick in 2009. At this point, it seems that a reunion would solve a number of issues on several fronts.

The Islanders would get the depth scoring they need, especially with a relatively weak third-line center in Jean-Gabriel Pageau. Plus, the familiarity between Tavares and the Isles could ease the transition.

On the flip side, Islanders fans may not be too receptive to Tavares returning to The Island. Fans were quite vocal when Tavares left during the 2018 offseason. Nevertheless, Tavares could be a good fit for Patrick Roy’s old-school, gritty approach, making Tavares a worthwhile addition to a team lacking depth scoring.