"The prevailing thought is that a rebuild would be a major red flag for the 28-year-old star. But what if there was a way the Maple Leafs could rebuild and keep Matthews? That possibility would almost entirely hinge on the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery."
"Let's assume for a minute that the Maple Leafs do manage to land a top-three pick in the 2026 NHL Draft. Such a situation could become a major selling point for the Leafs."
"The organization can convince Matthews that a high-end, generational prospect, like he once was, could be an accelerator towards a return to contention."
"In that case, it would be a hard sell to Matthews' camp that the club is on the fast track to return to contention."
Auston Matthews' future with the Toronto Maple Leafs is a central offseason narrative. The team's ability to retain him may depend on their direction and the outcome of the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery. A top-three pick could attract Matthews to stay, especially if it brings a high-end prospect. Conversely, failing to secure a top pick could signal to Matthews that the team is not on a path to contention, influencing his decision to leave in pursuit of a Stanley Cup.
Read at Editor In Leaf
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