Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares on Tuesday became the 107th player in NHL history to reach 400 career goals in the National Hockey League and, despite his satisfaction, he’s not content with it not and prefers to savor the collective successes of his teammates.
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The veteran scored two runs in the 5-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins, hitting the target in the first period to write a new page in his league history. “I am proud [du 400e] and I have evolved with several excellent players, in very good formations”, he also underlined to the daily “Toronto Sun”.
Still, the present remains at the heart of the priorities of the former New York Islanders. The Leafs are having a good time going 5-1-1 in their last seven meetings. He obviously hopes that his people will continue their success and climb the ranks of the Eastern Association. Doing so requires strong performance in all facets of the game.
“You’ve heard us talk about our standards for success and they’re still real. In order to get to the desired level, we have to defend ourselves well. Then, when you bet on gifted athletes, you understand the game well. When you don’t have the puck, there is a choice to be made; by making the effort to defend well, it allows our offensive to flourish,” said Tavares.
“It’s a big win and it’s even more meaningful when you get two points and everyone contributes.”
Interesting numbers
Certainly, if the Leafs hope to accumulate triumphs, they will have to count on their captain and so far, he has responded with his 18 points in 17 games, which earned him second place in his training behind Mitchell Marner (19). At this rate, he’ll finish averaging over a point per game for the first time since 2018-19; last year, he finished with 76 points in 79 games.
Toronto will host the New Jersey Devils on Thursday, who are on a 10-game winning streak.