John Tavares

John Tavares is a Canadian centre and current Toronto Maple Leafs captain, drafted first overall in 2009, known for his consistent goal-scoring over more than 16 NHL seasons split between the New York Islanders and Toronto.

John Tavares was born in Mississauga, Ontario in 1990. New York Islanders selected him first overall in the 2009 NHL Draft. His career has produced 416 goals and 536 assists for 952 career points. He was selected to six All-Star games. He signed a seven-year, $77 million contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs in July 2018 — a free agent signing that generated the largest reaction in Canadian hockey since Wayne Gretzky's trade to Los Angeles in 1988. He won Olympic gold with Canada in 2014. He scored 47 goals for Toronto in 2018-19. He became the Maple Leafs' captain in 2019. His career is one of the NHL's most discussed in terms of the gap between individual production and team success — he has been among the league's most productive centres throughout his career while the Islanders and Leafs have struggled in the playoffs. His importance to Canadian hockey culture is amplified by playing for the most scrutinised franchise in the sport.

Tavares is a skilled two-way center known for his excellent hockey IQ, precise passing, and clutch scoring ability. He excels in face-offs and possesses a quick, accurate shot with the ability to score from various angles. His leadership on ice and ability to elevate his teammates' play makes him an effective captain and playmaker.

Tavares established himself as one of the premier centers of his generation and helped elevate both the Islanders and Maple Leafs franchises during his tenure.

• Mark Messier Leadership Award (2019)
• NHL All-Rookie Team (2010)
• 5x NHL All-Star Game selection
• Toronto Maple Leafs captain (since 2019)

Team Career

Team	Period	GP	Goals
New York Islanders	2009–2018	669	272
Toronto Maple Leafs	2018–2024	—	—
Canada	—	85	38