Nick Kypreos, Justin Bourne, and Sam McKee discussed the Toronto Maple Leafs’ decision to ask John Tavares to relinquish his captaincy this summer, with some speculation that the team may have hoped the move would prompt Tavares to request a trade. While Tavares took the high road and didn’t take that route, Kypreos noted that some players in similar situations would have responded by asking to be traded if they felt unwanted.

The theory is that the Leafs may have been prepared for Tavares to be upset, potentially opening the door to alleviate cap space. However, Tavares seemed to recognize the organization’s intentions and chose not to give them any reason to push him out. Instead, he made it clear that he wants to stay, and by agreeing to step down as captain, he may have ensured the Leafs wouldn’t feel justified in moving him.