Don Cherry Criticizes Maple Leafs' Decision to Name Auston Matthews Captain
It didn't take long for Don Cherry to make headlines early in the 2024-25 season as he recently criticized the Maple Leafs' decision to name Auston Matthews captain.
This offseason the Toronto Maple Leafs made a flurry of changes to their entire team. From bringing in better defenders to help shut down opponents, a new head coach to give a grittier, tougher, and more aggressive approach to the game, and naming the greatest goal-scorer in the league; Auston Matthews, as the new captain taking over for John Tavares.
It was the decision to name Matthews captain that has drawn the ire of one of hockey's most controversial names. Speaking on 'The Don Cherry Podcast', Cherry touched on several topics and questions from fans, but one thing, in particular, stood out to Cherry: Ripping the captaincy from Tavares.
Cherry also lamented how Tavares must have felt in that situation, and believes Toronto needed to give him an extension to try and say "Trust us this will work."
Is Don Cherry Wrong In His Observations about the Maple Leafs?
Yes, but only partially. Toronto deciding to name their superstar as captain follows not only league precedent, but after Matthews' historic season last year, and his consistent drive and passion for the city; he deserves it. As much as John Tavares is beloved by fans and teammates, Matthews is one of the faces of the entire league, let alone Toronto. It was as much a business decision as it was a hockey decision, and Cherry should understand that.
However, he's not wrong when he believes it's a slap in the face. While Tavares is not going to show any negative emotions, and as much of a team player as he is; he's still human. It must not feel good to hear the team is going a different direction even if you've done nothing to warrant it. The human aspect that Cherry is relating to more is completely valid, and Tavares I'm sure felt a little miffed at points during these discussions.
For all Cherry's negativity towards Matthews being named captain, 'Grapes' is still confident in GM Brad Treliving's vision and that the Maple Leafs can still have success with Matthews wearing the 'C':
He concluded his thoughts on the situation with one simple comment:
It certainly is Don, and it's not changing any time soon.
| POLL | ||
Is Don Cherry right or wrong in criticizing the Maple Leafs' decision to name Matthews captain? | ||
| Right, he isn't ready | 233 | 51.1 % |
| Wrong, it's Matthews team clearly | 223 | 48.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
