Auston Matthews may request a trade from the Toronto Maple Leafs if the team fails to improve, according to Bleacher Report's Lyle Richardson. Matthews' contract is set to expire in 2028.
What's at stake for Auston Matthews?
The Maple Leafs are coming off their first non-playoff season in a decade, and Matthews' production has dipped since leading the league in goals with 69 in the 2023-24 season.
He scored just 33 goals in the 2024-25 season and a career-low 27 goals in the past season. Matthews is the captain and star of the franchise, but the team's lack of playoff success under his leadership may lead to a trade.
Why the Maple Leafs could explore a trade
The Maple Leafs have made significant roster changes, including signing Sergei Bobrovsky and selecting Gavin McKenna with the No. 1 overall pick. However, if the team struggles, Matthews may decide not to waste the final season of his contract with a rebuilding club.
A trade request before the March 2027 deadline is possible, with the remaining year on his contract making him a valuable trade target. The Maple Leafs have a major opportunity to get back into playoff contention, but Matthews' future in Toronto is uncertain.
What comes next for Auston Matthews?
The 2026-27 season will be a make-or-break year for Matthews and the Maple Leafs. If the team fails to improve, it may be time to consider a new era without Matthews, the most talented player in franchise history.
The Maple Leafs' new regime, featuring John Chayka as general manager and Mats Sundin as Senior Executive Adviser of Hockey Operations, has reshaped the roster. But the team's success will depend on Matthews' performance and the overall team chemistry.
Auston Matthews is 28 years old and has already set records for most goals in a single season in franchise history. He became the all-time leader in goals at a young age, but the team's playoff success has been limited under his leadership.
The Maple Leafs snapped a 19-year win-less streak in the playoffs by defeating the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2023, but they have only two playoff series wins under Matthews' leadership. The team's future with Matthews is uncertain, and the upcoming season will be crucial in determining his fate with the Maple Leafs.