Things have changed fast in Toronto. Just one year removed from being viewed as a legitimate Stanley Cup contender, the Maple Leafs are suddenly facing uncertainty on nearly every level, from the front office to the future of their biggest superstar.
After a disastrous season and growing speculation about Auston Matthews’ future, pressure is building on the Maple Leafs to figure out where things stand heading into the offseason.
Auston Matthews Facing Major Decision Around Maple Leafs Future
Matthews has now completed the second season of his four-year, $53 million contract and will become eligible for an extension next offseason.
Questions about his long-term future with the Toronto Maple Leafs only grew louder after his end-of-season media availability, where Matthews admitted he “can’t predict the future” when asked about staying in Toronto.
Speaking on the Barn Burner podcast, NHL insider Darren Dreger suggested the Maple Leafs’ new management group may need answers from Matthews before the NHL Draft.
“We can’t wait for you to make that call in mid-July, we need you to decide if you are in or you are out between now and draft,” Dreger said. “If you’re not committed, then give us your three teams or two teams. You have all the leverage. You know, you have the no-move clause, but we need to have that consideration.”
Dreger believes Toronto’s front office needs clarity before the draft so the organization can decide whether to fully build around Matthews or begin preparing for alternative scenarios.
The uncertainty follows a disastrous season for Toronto. The Maple Leafs finished 32-36-14 with 78 points, ending up with the wooden spoon in the Atlantic Division and missing the playoffs for the first time in a decade. Their 30-point drop from the previous season became one of the NHL’s biggest collapses of the year.
Matthews also dealt with multiple injuries throughout the season, including a torn MCL and a quad contusion suffered in March. He finished with 27 goals and 53 points in 60 games: the lowest offensive output of his NHL career.
The disappointing year ultimately led to Brad Treliving being let go as general manager in March 2026. Toronto replaced him with John Chayka, while franchise legend Mats Sundin joined the front office as Senior Executive Advisor during the organization’s reset.
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Adding even more intrigue to the offseason, the Leafs landed the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery. But the biggest question still surrounds Auston Matthews and his uncertain future in Toronto.
