"This should worry Maple Leafs fans, as without Auston Matthews in the future, the Maple Leafs will more than likely have to begin a rebuild, something Leafs fans haven't seen in nearly a decade. Making the playoffs over the next few seasons will be a deciding factor for Matthews. Matthews is in the heart of his career, and does not want to waste his prime sitting on a non-playoff-contending roster."
"Nick Kypreos mentioned that a potential fit, if Matthews decides to leave, is the Los Angeles Kings. The Kings will need a first-line centre when Anze Kopitar retires and has a similar cup window as the Maple Leafs. If the Leafs decide to move on from Matthews, he will be able to choose his next destination. He has a full no-movement clause until the expiration of his contract."
The Toronto Maple Leafs have reached the postseason nine consecutive seasons but currently sit three points behind the Boston Bruins for the final wild-card spot. Auston Matthews is in the second year of a four-year deal running through 2028 and holds a full no-movement clause. Matthews' willingness to remain will depend on the team's ability to win playoff games during his prime. A prolonged failure to contend could force a rebuild. The Los Angeles Kings are identified as a logical trade destination because they will need a first-line centre when Anze Kopitar retires and share a similar championship window.
Read at Editor In Leaf
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