Tavares Out Versus Avalanche After Birth of Fourth Child
John Tavares will not play Saturday against Colorado after his wife gave birth to their fourth child, a son named Tucker. Toronto coach Jim Hiller announced the absence, and Nick Paul took the second-line center spot between Easton Cowan and William Nylander in practice. Tavares has recorded one goal and three points in five games this season.
Tavares, 36, has one goal and three points in five games this season and has usually anchored Toronto’s second line. With him unavailable, Nick Paul practiced in that center spot between Easton Cowan and William Nylander. Coach Jim Hiller said he values the club’s center depth, while Nylander felt the new trio worked well.
Toronto also recalled Miles Wood from the Marlies, though it is not yet clear whether he enters the lineup or Zack MacEwen remains on the fourth line. Tavares is housing rookie Gavin McKenna this season, and Hiller has not said whether Tavares will return Tuesday in Utah.
The lineup change may affect Toronto’s players, coaches, and fans, as Paul and others absorb extra responsibility while the team manages a short-term absence. It could also draw attention to how professional sports organizations handle family leave and roster depth, perhaps shaping fan discussion around parental support and workplace flexibility. The Tavares family and teammates are most directly touched, while opponents may face a slightly different Toronto lineup.