Major Statement Regarding Auston Matthews' Future in Toronto

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Wade Messier
June 2, 2023 (4:20 PM)

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Amidst all of the drama in the Maple Leafs front office, there have been plenty of questions about the future of Auston Matthews in Toronto. The franchise record holder in most goals scored in one season is a free agent after next season, and with a new general manager in town, the Leafs could be looking to recuperate as many assets as possible.

Matthews Won't Commit Long Term

Elliotte Friedman recently reported that while he believes Toronto will extend Matthews, he doesn't think it will be for the maximum term of 8 years. Instead, he thinks Matthews could seek a contract ranging from 3-6 years, which would set up Matthews to be a free agent in the prime of his career.

This would allow Matthews to stick with the Leafs for the next few years while Brad Treliving tries to build a cup-winning team, and then leave in free agency if the team has still yet to accomplish anything.

Matthews No Trade Clause Will be a Problem

Another obstacle for Toronto that Friedman mentioned is the fact that Matthews has a no-trade clause that kicks in on July 1st, just under a month away. The Leafs would like to come to an agreement with Matthews before July 1st so they can have peace of mind for the rest of the season, but Friedman doesn't think it will happen.

Once July 1st passes, the Leafs can either re-sign Matthews or lose him to free agency. They won't be able to trade him at the deadline, which is why new GM Brad Treliving must act fast.

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