Maple Leafs general manager Kyle Dubas had told Tavares he wanted to "go over some logistical things," but when he escorted Tavares into an office on Monday, his wife, baby, coach Mike Babcock and team president Brendan Shanahan were waiting.
"This is a hell of a surprise," Tavares said in the video. "It's a real honor. I won't ever take it for granted."
Jace, born Sept. 12, was the first Tavares to don the 'C,' with Aryne placing a jersey on the infant before John entered the room. Having his family in on the surprise was special for Tavares.
"Just seeing the jersey on Jace was unreal. That hits home big time," Tavares said in the video. "To have him pulling pranks on me and being a part of this blew me away, and when I saw them when I walked in was amazing."
Tavares was
unveiled as captain
ahead of the Maple Leafs season opener against the Ottawa Senators. He became the first team captain since Dion Phaneuf held the title from 2010 to 2016.
