Tavares Scores 501st Goal, Leads Maple Leafs to Victory

John Tavares reached a significant milestone in his career by scoring his 501st goal during the Toronto Maple Leafs’ 5-3 victory over the Utah Mammoth on November 5, 2025. The veteran centre celebrated this achievement with his family on the ice before the game, marking his entry into an exclusive club of only 49 players in NHL history to reach the 500-goal mark.

Prior to the puck drop, Tavares was honored in a ceremony that included his parents, wife, and three children. “My biggest supporters and sacrifice a lot so I can do what I do,” Tavares expressed. “Really glad I got to share it with them, and even better to follow up with a great effort and a big win.” This goal came just a week after he netted his 500th in a 6-3 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, allowing Tavares to reflect on his career and the journey that brought him to this point.

Milestone Achievements

Tavares, who began his NHL career with the New York Islanders before joining Toronto in 2018, acknowledged the significance of his achievement. “The goals are amazing and I’m very proud of it, and a lot of people have contributed,” he said. “But just to be going since I was a kid to this point, and be in the position I’m in, I’m just really grateful and thankful for so many people that have impacted me in such a great way and continue to support me.”

His teammates also celebrated Tavares’s accomplishment. Captain Auston Matthews remarked on the professionalism Tavares displays, stating, “Huge honour to play with a guy like that. Even at the age that he’s at, the way he takes care of himself, he’s a true professional.”

Matthew Knies, who has lived with Tavares since making his NHL debut in 2023, described the 500-goal milestone as “astounding,” adding, “It gives you chills. For him to score on this night, it’s pretty special. I’m just happy to be part of it.” Matias Maccelli, a newcomer to the team, reflected on Tavares’s work ethic, calling him “the most professional (player) I’ve ever seen.”

Team Performance and Future Outlook

In addition to Tavares’s milestone, Matthews contributed significantly by scoring his seventh goal of the season, helping the Maple Leafs secure their third consecutive win. “I like where my game’s been at,” Matthews stated. “Getting good opportunities, good chances throughout each game. Just want to keep that going, play well defensively, and be responsible.”

Maccelli also made headlines by scoring the game-winner against Utah, marking a personal achievement after being acquired by Toronto in the off-season. “I enjoyed it,” he said, reflecting on his prior experience with the Mammoth. Leafs head coach Craig Berube praised Maccelli’s competitive spirit, noting, “He was really good.”

As the season progresses, the Maple Leafs (8-5-1) look to continue their strong performance. Tavares’s historic goal adds to the narrative of a team that is not only celebrating individual accomplishments but also building momentum as they aim for postseason success.

The game showcased the talent and determination within the Maple Leafs roster, with Tavares at the forefront, exemplifying a career filled with dedication and excellence in the sport.