NHL Insider thinks Maple Leafs should BLOCKBUSTER move with Auston Matthews

The Toronto Maple Leafs were gifted with the opportunity to draft Auston Matthews when they won the NHL Draft Lottery. Matthews was seen as the team's savior, the one who would finally lead them to break their Stanley Cup curse. Despite his individual success, however, Matthews has yet to guide the Leafs past the first round and towards a Stanley Cup victory.

Matthews surprised fans by signing a 5-year deal with the Maple Leafs that pays him $11,634,000 per season. The length of the contract, rather than the amount, was the main point of contention, as it could lead Matthews directly to unrestricted free agency. This possibility could devastate Maple Leafs fans if Matthews decides to leave for another team next season.

In the recent Cam and Strick Podcast, Andy Strickland expressed doubt that Matthews would sign a contract extension this summer.

Could the reigning MVP be on the move this summer? 👀🔥

Comment your teams best offer for Auston Matthews ⬇️💰 pic.twitter.com/wc5SuQMlqR— The Cam & Strick Podcast (@CamandStrick) March 8, 2023

The potential loss of Matthews without any tangible gains is a looming concern for the Maple Leafs. While Matthews may desire to be the highest paid player in the league, Strickland is unsure if this will be the case. He speculates that Matthews may follow in the footsteps of his close friend, Matthew Tkachuk, and depart from the team. If this occurs, the Maple Leafs may face the steep cost of losing him, as few teams may be willing to pay his price. The question remains: what other alternatives do the Maple Leafs have?