The Toronto Maple Leafs entered the offseason facing major pressure after missing the playoffs for the first time since 2016. Auston Matthews’ season-ending injury, combined with sweeping front-office changes and another disappointing campaign, has left the franchise searching for clarity heading into a pivotal summer.
Although Toronto landed the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, uncertainty surrounding Matthews’ future continues to fuel league-wide discussion.
This conversation picked up even more after insider David Pagnotta pointed to three Western Conference teams that could emerge as serious options if the situation between Matthews and the Maple Leafs continues to trend in the wrong direction.
David Pagnotta Reveals List of Teams Tracking Auston Matthews’ Situation
Matthews remains under contract through the 2027-28 season on a 4-year, $53 million deal carrying a $13.25 million cap hit. However, uncertainty surrounding Toronto’s retool has opened the door for growing league-wide discussion about what could happen if both sides eventually decide a separation makes sense.
During a recent episode of Commission Athleticique, NHL insider David Pagnotta explained why teams are already monitoring the situation closely. Pagnotta said, “If July 15 rolls around and they sign a fourth-line winger and a number-four defenseman, and that’s it, I think the writing’s kind of on the wall in terms of the direction of the team moving forward.”
Pagnotta added that the decision would not belong solely to Matthews. “I think it’s in both parties’ best interests to move on. You can maximize a return,” he said, while stressing that no trade appears imminent at this stage.
Among the teams mentioned most often, the Los Angeles Kings continue to stand out because of their combination of roster talent and market appeal. Pagnotta noted “there’s legitimacy there” regarding Los Angeles’ interest. Proposed packages have centered around Quinton Byfield and more pieces.
Pagnotta mentioned Toronto’s interest in Brandt Clarke, but added, “But I can’t see LA moving both of those guys in a deal.”
The Utah Mammoth also emerged as a serious possibility due to their deep collection of young assets. Pagnotta stated Utah “would go hard” after Matthews if he became available. Talking about speculated trade returns, he said, “I can imagine they would package some [top-tier talent, young talent] up for an Auston Matthews. Whether he wants to go there or not, I don’t know.”
The Seattle Kraken were identified as another organization expected to pursue Matthews aggressively. Pagnotta explained Seattle wants a franchise-changing centerpiece and “would go very hard after him.” However, there’s uncertainty around what Kraken could package for Matthews.
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Any potential move would still face major complications. Matthews owns a full no-movement clause, giving him complete control over any trade discussions. Salary retention would also likely become necessary, especially for teams trying to absorb a $13.25 million cap hit while maintaining roster depth.
For now, Toronto continues publicly treating Matthews as the centerpiece of its future. Still, with new management led by John Chayka and Mats Sundin entering a critical offseason, league attention remains fixed on whether the Maple Leafs can convince their captain that the organization is still moving toward championship contention.
