John Tavares ruled out for Avalanche game following life-changing news
Photo credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
Toronto Maple Leafs forward John Tavares will miss Saturday's game against Colorado after welcoming his fourth child, and the lineup shuffle is already underway.
The Toronto Maple Leafs will be without John Tavares on Saturday in Colorado, and it is for the best reason possible.
Tavares and his family welcomed a baby boy named Tucker, head coach Jim Hiller told travelling reporters.
It is the fourth child for the veteran centre.
Puck drop against the Avalanche is set for 7 p.m. ET.
Toronto also recalled forward Miles Wood from the AHL's Toronto Marlies, and he will join the team Saturday.
It is unclear whether Wood will draw into the lineup or whether Zack MacEwen returns to the fourth line.
What changes down the middle
Tavares has been centring the second line with Gavin McKenna and William Nylander as his main linemates.
At Friday's practice, Nick Paul slid into that spot between Nylander and Easton Cowan, while McKenna moved over to play with Colton Sissons and Bo Groulx.
The timing is tough for a Leafs group coming off a 4-3 loss in Vegas on Thursday.
Tavares has a goal and three points in five games and was a catalyst in Tuesday's comeback win over the Nashville Predators.
A busy household in Toronto
Tavares and his family are hosting McKenna during his rookie season, and the two share notes after games.
The 36-year-old has embraced a leadership role throughout his time in Toronto and has been a natural mentor to the 18-year-old, who was selected first overall in the 2026 NHL Draft.
Family has always been central for Tavares.
His kids and his wife, Aryne, were on hand when the Leafs honoured his 500th goal in a pre-game ceremony last November.
It is unclear whether he will rejoin the team Tuesday in Utah, where the road trip ends.
Also read on House Of Hockey :
Penguins place defenseman on waivers just months after signing him to extension
Penguins place defenseman on waivers just months after signing him to extension