The most looming factor of the next few months among Toronto Maple Leafs fans is undoubtedly the status of star center Auston Matthews, who becomes eligible to sign a contract extension with Toronto on July 1 and avoid hitting unrestricted free agency in 2024.
Following the departure of general manager Kyle Dubas earlier this month, speculation has arisen regarding the impact it may have on Matthews’ future with the organization. However, according to TSN’s Chris Johnston on today’s episode of Insider Trading, the discourse surrounding their relationship has been exaggerated, with lines of communication remaining open between the Leafs and Matthews’ camp regarding a potential extension.
“They’re not really making any progress at this point in time or having any firm discussions about a contract he can sign on July 1, but I don’t think introducing a new general manager at this point in time is gonna derail that,” Johnston said. While negotiations regarding a new contract have yet to gain any real momentum, Matthews’ desire to remain in Toronto aligns with the organization’s intentions, as previously reported.
It is anticipated that once a new general manager is appointed, talks will swiftly resume and progress toward securing Matthews’ future as a Leaf.
In regard to the timing of that appointment, TSN’s Darren Dreger also said that team president Brendan Shanahan could make an offer to Toronto’s desired candidate by the end of this week. With the draft quickly approaching, they’ll want to have their front office in place with enough time to prepare.
Entering the final year of his five-year, $11.64MM cap hit deal (which has a no-movement clause that kicks in July 1), Matthews has scored 188 goals and 149 assists in 269 regular-season games over the life of the contract.
TRADE TRADE TRADE IF THEY KNOW WHAT IS GOOD FOR THEM..
Easier said then done with the league still in another flat cap year + extension (bigger return will require one). Matthews & his cap hit will have to require multiple high cap hits coming back (Leafs would prefer expiring cap hits).
it would not however. the leafs likely would take on a salary or two of a decent player since they won’t spend any just futures for AM, but the off-season would be the time to trade him when teams can go over the cap.
if it was in season I agree they would have to take some garbage back
They will still have to take back a contract or 2 unless there are the few teams that can put almost $10 million on LTIR. Remember the league will be watching to ensure a player is injured enough to stay on LTIR for almost the whole year.
Look at last season’s Florida & Calgary trade as a example.
I agree but taking back salary isn’t the issue. some have implied they would have to take back a bad contract which I don’t agree with
AM plus rights to Bunting for McTavish, Luneau and 1st pick in 23 and Henrique. We get Fantilli who can replace AM in a couple years.
Bunting the rights to bunting mean nothing and Anaheim isn’t trading for AM without an extension, plus they would want to keep that 2OA
AM will need a extension if you are talking about him being around past next season.
Maybe instead of taking back salary maybe open up some more salary. What about a AM and Matt Murray to Arizona for Schmalz Lawson Crouse Logan Cooley and the #12 pick.
why does everyone think Matthews wants to go to ARZ? sure he’s from there but they may not be there in two years
LA KINGS BIG LIGHTS BIG CITY
Why does everyone think he’s a liar? The guy has shown to be a man with great character which includes honesty, integrity, and good sportsmanship.Auston Matthews is a class act and will Re-sign another 5 year deal worth $66.3-$66.7 which is an AAV of $13.3-$13.7. Every hater out there isn’t it enough that the Maple Leafs haven’t won the Cup in over a half century???
You forgot P***y ,soft , not a leader and self centered…and classless after picking on a female security guard..Hhmmmm did I leave anything out…but if Maple leafs still want no cups in the next number of years sure throw their $$$$ away…