Toronto Maple Leafs forward John Tavares continues to ascend through the record books during the early portion of the 2025-26 NHL season.

Tavares opened the scoring against the New Jersey Devils during the first period of Tuesday’s game. The 35-year-0ld passed fellow Maple Leafs legend Darryl Sittler for 65th on the NHL’s all-time career points list. It was also the 498th goal of Tavares’ career, and his impending 500th goal will surely be celebrated across the league.

During Saturday’s 4-3 overtime loss to the Seattle Kraken, Tavares recorded his 500th point with the Maple Leafs. Tavares became the fourth player in NHL history to record 500 points with two different franchises.

“Obviously, I’ve been able to play for two great franchises, and to have the success I’ve had, I think, speaks volumes to my teammates, coaches, people that have been around me, and, everyone that’s been part of the journey,” Tavares said Saturday. “I’ve really enjoyed it and I just want to keep going.”

Tavares is one of the best players of his generation and he’s being celebrated as such, while still operating as one of the Maple Leafs’ most potent threats. The veteran forward further endeared himself to the Maple Leafs’ fan base, by signing a four-year extension worth $4.38 million during the offseason. Tavares would’ve certainly received more money on the open market, but didn’t want to leave the Maple Leafs, and he will almost certainly finish career with the franchise.

After passing Sittler, Tavares is now in line to surpass Mike Bossy and Joe Nieuwendyk on the NHL’s all-time scoring list, the latter of whom became a Leafs legend during his lone season with the club in 2003-04.

It’s unwise to count Tavares out at this stage of his career, as he ascends through the record books, while looking to improve on a 38-goal campaign.