Mar 12, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) looks up at the scoreboard after scoring against the Anaheim Ducks during the second period at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Mar 12, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Auston Matthews (34) looks up at the scoreboard after scoring against the Anaheim Ducks during the second period at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Maple Leafs’ center Auston Matthews has a decision to make. The franchise has undergone a massive overhaul in the front office and seems keen to do the same to its roster.
A bottom-placed finish and no postseason for the first time in nine years merits assessment, and new Toronto GM John Chayka has been vocal about it.
While analysts and rumors point to a renewal, the 29-year-old has endured a tough season that might affect his plans.
Having suffered a Grade 3 MCL injury and with two years left on his current contract, Matthews may still see his future elsewhere.
Three Teams That Could Use Auston Matthews’ Experience
NHL insider Pierre Lebrun has highlighted three franchises keen to trade for Matthews. However, the Athletic journalist remains confident of a renewal, which may upend those plans.
“That’ll be disappointing for a long list of teams that were keeping an eye on how things developed on the Matthews front," Lebrun stated, per PFSN. "Including the likes of the Los Angeles Kings, Anaheim Ducks, and Utah Mammoth.”
Still, the three franchises have reportedly explored the possibility should Toronto's plans change.
Los Angeles Kings
While the Kings can’t match the Ducks and Mammoth in assets, the franchise is crying for a topline center. With the team bidding farewell to franchise legend Anže Kopitar, competing for Matthews’ signature would be the ideal step.
The franchise suffered a first-round sweep against the Colorado Avalanche, in a season that included an embarrassing 8-1 league defeat to the Oilers. As Toronto looks to a major shift, the Kings might continue to keep a close eye on their roster.
Anaheim Ducks
John Carlson. Image Credits: Griffin Hooper/Imagn
John Carlson. Image Credits: Griffin Hooper/Imagn
On the other hand, Anaheim is enjoying a quiet resurgence. After a few years of rebuilding, the Ducks have a young but capable squad, featuring centers Mason McTavish and Leo Carlsson, as well as forward Cutter Gauthier.
The franchise also reached its first playoffs in eight years, which may prompt further additions to the squad.
In May, Pierre Lebrun explored a possible trade for Auston Matthews with McTavish going the other way.
“One player who fits that criteria is 23-year-old forward Mason McTavish,” he said, per ClutchPoints. “Which is a little obvious after he was scratched for two playoff games.”
Following contract disputes and an underwhelming regular season, trading McTavish for Matthews seemed probable for the Ducks. Recent updates, however, may have dispelled those hopes.
Utah Mammoth
Having joined the league in 2024, the Mammoth already made the playoffs in 2026. With captain Clayton Keller and Nick Schmaltz leading on the scoring front, the franchise also added Stanley Cup winners and veterans Ian Cole, Nate Schmidt, and more for experience.
NHL analyst Jeff Marek claimed that Utah might be capable of offering the best trade for Auston Matthews.
“I think Utah might be able to put the best package together,” Marek stated, per NHL Rumour Report.
Adding Auston Matthews to the squad may skyrocket the franchise to contender status. The team is already knocking on the door, and adding a franchise-changing center could be the defining step.
What do you think? Is Auston Matthews' renewal a foregone conclusion? Have other teams missed out? Let us know in the comments.
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Written by
Sijo Paul
Edited by
Sijo Paul