John Tavares hears your pity but wants nothing to do with it.
The former Islanders captain addressed the Long Island faithful for the first time since snubbing them in free agency for the Maple Leafs, laying out the reasons behind his momentous decision in a Players’ Tribune piece Wednesday. Tavares, who left millions on the table from the Islanders by signing a seven-year, $77 million deal with Toronto on July 1, described the jarring moment he knew which way he wanted to take his NHL career.
And it’s the only feeling that held him back that likely will weigh on the hearts of Islanders fans each time their 2009 first-overall draft pick puts on the blue and white.