Toronto Maple Leafs captain John Tavares accomplished a significant milestone by scoring his 500th NHL goal on Wednesday. This achievement took place during a match against the Columbus Blue Jackets at Nationwide Arena, where the Maple Leafs fell short with a 6-3 defeat.
Tavares Achieves 500 Goals in the NHL
Tavares recorded his landmark goal at 15:45 in the third period. The goal came from a precise snapshot in the left circle, assisted by teammate Matthew Knies. It marked Tavares as the 49th player in NHL history to net 500 goals.
Recent Performances Leading to the Milestone
- Tavares scored his 499th goal in a previous game, leading the Maple Leafs to a 4-3 overtime victory over the Buffalo Sabres.
- The goal came during a breakaway situation, showcasing his sharp offensive skills.
Career Overview and Achievements
The 35-year-old center boasts an impressive record. He has accumulated 1,128 points, consisting of 500 goals and 628 assists, across 1,194 regular-season NHL games. His tenure includes time with both the Maple Leafs and the New York Islanders.
- In his 526 regular-season games with the Maple Leafs, Tavares has scored 228 goals.
- He joined Toronto on July 1, 2018, signing a seven-year contract worth $77 million.
- In June 2023, he extended his stay with a four-year deal valued at $17.52 million.
Previous Honors and Historical Context
Tavares was drafted first overall by the Islanders in the 2009 NHL Draft. With New York, he netted 272 goals, placing him ninth in the franchise’s all-time scoring list. His highest single-season goal tally is 47, achieved during the 2018-19 season, his inaugural year with the Maple Leafs.
On October 18, 2023, he joined an elite group of players, alongside legends like Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier. These players are among the few in NHL history to reach 500 goals while playing for multiple franchises.
Reflecting on his journey, Tavares expressed gratitude for having played with two esteemed franchises. He emphasized the support of teammates and coaches throughout his career. Tavares looks forward to continued success in the league.
