Chris Tanev and John Tavares have put their best foot forward on day one of Maple Leafs training camp, facing off in a competitive test against one another.
After Tavares passed the torch this summer, playing a special role in helping to appoint Auston Matthews the new captain of the team, some were concerned of what this might have done to Tavares emotionally and whether or not he’d still be willing to lead by example the same way that he always has. Well, we can put those concerns to rest now.
On Thursday, new Leafs coach Craig Berube had Tavares and Tanev positioned against one another in a puck battle drill. With their teammates front and center to witness the battle, both Tavares and Tanev put on an absolute show, allowing their competitive spirits to fully take over.
The drill may not have lasted as long as a typical shift, but it was the perfect way to show that neither player will give an inch when it comes to puck battles this season, be it in the offensive zone or the defensive zone.
This is the first real up-close look that Leafs fans are getting at what Tanev will add to this team. A fierce competitor in his own zone, Tanev has no quit in his game, as Tavares found out here.
Likewise for Tanev, he has had the chance to experience playing against Tavares before, but this is the first time the two have been able to practice together and match their competitive natures up against one another. They’ll both be better for it all year long.
As far as everyone else on the team goes, watching Tanev and Tavares set the standard for competition has its benefits as well. Leading by example is important, and even though Tavares is no longer the captain, he can still lead in his own way and help inspire others to follow his lead and never quit on a play.
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Source: CNN
