On July 1, 2018, John Tavares announced his departure from the NY Islanders to join the Toronto Maple Leafs. Despite the disappointment among fans, teammate Cal Clutterbuck expressed understanding for Tavares' decision, stating he held no grudge. Clutterbuck remarked on the excitement of Tavares' first game back and noted that the Islanders succeeded post-Tavares, reaching back-to-back Conference/Semi-Finals, while Tavares and the Leafs struggled in playoff outcomes. Players recognize the business side of such decisions, emphasizing their right to choose teams thoughtfully.
Cal Clutterbuck expressed support for John Tavares’ decision to leave for the Maple Leafs, stating, "I never held a grudge...He earned that decision."
Clutterbuck described Tavares' first return to Nassau Coliseum as 'one of the wildest games I've ever seen.'
Despite the loss of Tavares, the Islanders advanced to back-to-back Conference/Semi-Finals, contrasting with Tavares and the Leafs’ struggles in the playoffs.
Players understand that decisions like Tavares’ are part of a business and do not fault athletes for choosing their career paths.
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