John Tavares Attempting to Turn Hot Start With Leafs into New Opportunity

The Toronto Maple Leafs have had a subpar start to the season by their standards, with a record of 6-5-2. However, one player who has excelled despite the team's struggles is John Tavares.

The former captain has tallied 11 points in 12 games thus far, showcasing a renewed energy that many speculate is due to the reduced pressure after relinquishing the captaincy to superstar teammate, Auston Matthews.

It appears Tavares is turning this hot start into an even greater opportunity. In an article by Luke Fox, he featured comments from Tavares expressing his desire to represent Canada in the Four Nations Face-Off tournament. He stated:

While Tavares may no longer be viewed as an $11 million-per-season player, as his contract suggests, he remains a valuable contributor. If he continues to produce at this level, the Maple Leafs may find themselves needing to pay him more than expected. However, both sides seem aligned regarding a contract extension, with Tavares expressing a desire to remain with the team beyond this season.

If Tavares can maintain this pace and earns a spot on Team Canada for the Four Nations Face-Off tournament at 34 years of age, he will have proven many doubters wrong and will continue to be an incredible asset for the blue and white going forward.