Why John Tavares flew back and forth for his new son and Maple Leafs

Toronto Maple Leafs center John Tavares traveled across North America multiple times in under six days to balance the birth of his fourth child and team commitments. After learning his wife Aryne had gone into labor following a game in Las Vegas, Tavares rushed home but arrived shortly after the birth of his son, Tucker. He spent two days with his family before rejoining the Maple Leafs on Monday in Utah.

Tavares missed Toronto's 6-3 victory against the Colorado Avalanche during his brief absence from the team. Following a solo skate on Sunday, he flew out to Salt Lake City, preparing to play in his 1,347th career game on Tuesday. Tavares credited his wife and family support for handling the situation smoothly while expressing his desire to remain with his teammates during the road trip.