John Tavares dejected by 500th NHL goal not having any impact in Maple Leafs's blowout loss vs. Blue Jackets

NHL: Toronto Maple Leafs at Buffalo Sabres - Source: Imagn
John Tavares dejected by 500th NHL goal not having any impact in Maple Leafs's blowout loss vs. Blue Jackets - Source: Imagn

John Tavares was one of the scorers in the Maple Leafs’ 6-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Wednesday.

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The game marked a historic milestone for Tavares, as he became the 49th player in NHL history to reach 500 career goals, scoring at 15:45 of the third period to cut the deficit to 6-2.

Despite the personal achievement, Tavares was dejected that his milestone goal could not have more impact on the team’s defeat. In his post-game media availability, he said:

"Really hard to comment on it right now. I understand the question, and appreciate it, but, you play this game to win as a team, and it's all about the team. You'd like to have it have more of an impact on the game."
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He added:

"But for sure, in the days ahead, I'll appreciate it more. Obviously a lot has gone into it, and a lot of support along the way, from so many people, mainly my teammates, coaches and people close to me and my family."
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John Tavares has amassed 14 points through six goals and eight assists in 11 games this season.

John Tavares' captain Auston Matthews highlights two shortcomings in loss to the Blue Jackets

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews pointed out the defensive shortcomings and leaky goaltending as two glaring issues in the 6-3 loss to the Blue Jackets on Wednesday.

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"I think I don't think it's an effort thing," he said. "I think guys worked hard. I thought we competed. I thought we had a lot of offensive zone time. Just when breakdowns happen and mistakes happen, they just are too big of breakdowns and too big of mistakes."

John Tavares and the Maple Leafs would hope to bounce back when traveling to Wells Fargo Center to face the Philadelphia Flyers next on Saturday. The puck drops at 7 p.m. ET.

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Edited by Abhishek Dilta
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