Maple Leafs Fail to Show Up for John Tavares, Tainting Major Milestone Moment

On July 1st, 2019, Leafs Nation exploded when the Toronto Maple Leafs signed John Tavares, successfully luring him away from the New York Islanders, signing a seven-year deal with his hometown team.

It hasn't quite gone to plan since then. The Maple Leafs haven't had the playoff success everyone expected, but it's impossible not to give Tavares credit for the work he's done individually. He's been consistent, he scores goals, and he finds a way to create chances even when it seems impossible.

Most of his time in Toronto Tavares has played as the second line center behind Auston Matthews. That doesn't take away from his importance. He's been a steady, reliable presence for the Leafs and has delivered year after year.

This past offseason, he signed a team-friendly deal, showing again that he's committed to the team and his teammates. That kind of leadership and consistency is exactly what Toronto needs.

Now he's reached a huge milestone, notching 500 career NHL goals with his 3rd period tally against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Wednesday.

Tavares is now tied with Lanny McDonald for 48th all time, and there's no question that he'll climb even higher before he retires.

Tavares could have used a better effort from the rest of his teammates tonight, as the Leafs turned what should have been a moment of great celebration into a somber moment with yet another loss. Very disappointing indeed.