John Tavares’ Role Shifts: Will the Former Captain Thrive in a New Position for the Maple Leafs?

John Tavares has long been a fixture in the Maple Leafs’ top-six forward group, but recent developments may signal a shift in his place within the lineup.

For over six seasons, Tavares served as the captain and a key locker room leader for the Toronto Maple Leafs, representing the team admirably. However, with the Leafs naming Auston Matthews as the 26th captain in franchise history, Tavares has seen a slight reduction in his formal role, although he continues to lead by example on the ice. Yet, with the news of William Nylander’s move to center this season, questions have arisen about whether Tavares is slipping down the depth chart.

As the Maple Leafs gear up for their preseason opener against the Ottawa Senators, their line combinations have sparked some intrigue. According to David Alter of *The Hockey News*, the projected lines for the game offer a glimpse into where players may slot in:

This is a departure from the line Tavares skated with just days earlier during training camp:

Although it was only a practice, Tavares’ placement alongside McMann and Robertson hinted that he would center the second line, while Nylander would move down to boost offensive output on what is traditionally a “checking” line. However, the opposite now seems to be in play. Tavares is set to center veteran Max Pacioretty and standout camp performer Nikita Grebenkin, giving him the chance to excel defensively while providing stability to the lineup. Against an Ottawa team featuring this lineup, Tavares’ line should have an opportunity to shine.

Nylander’s transition to center will take time to perfect, but if new head coach Craig Berube gives the experiment room to grow, it could be a major success. Shifting Tavares to the third line isn’t necessarily a negative move. At 34 years old, a reduced role could allow him to utilize his playmaking skills against weaker competition while preserving his energy for the long season ahead. This could prove especially beneficial in the playoffs, where Tavares was Toronto’s only goal scorer in their last postseason run. His presence on the third line would give the Leafs their deepest roster in years, and if needed, they could always shift him back up to the second line, with Nylander dropping down for a new look.

While preseason games often don’t set anything in stone, it’s becoming clear that Berube has a strategy for this season—one that involves moving Tavares into a role where he can excel. It sounds like a formula for success.