Pierre McGuire has dim outlook for John Tavares

Since his arrival in Toronto as the famed prodigal son in 2018, John Tavares has taken on the role of team leader of the Maple Leafs, and was named captain in his second season with the franchise. It marked the second time in his career that he's worn the C on his sweater, as he previously served in the same role with the New York Islanders.

However, his stats have been diminishing, and he finished last season with his lowest point total in a full season since 2009-10.

And according to analyst Pierre McGuire, the Leafs captain had better be prepared to accept a lesser role with the club.

”When we got him, Trottier wasn't going to play ahead of Mario Lemieux or eventually Ron Francis. So, he goes in the three-hole. ... It worked, and he became the Pied Piper for the team. I believe John Tavares could be similar. If you move him to the three-hole and create the proper role for him, I think he could be an elite player in that position. Forget what he makes. Don't pay attention to the money. Just play him in the three-hole, and you watch how important he is to the team."

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