In a prediction that has sent shockwaves through the hockey world, a prominent NHL analyst has forecast a seismic shift for the Toronto Maple Leafs, suggesting the franchise could trade its captain and superstar, Auston Matthews, in a blockbuster deal by 2026.
The Bold Prediction: A Franchise-Altering Move
Sportsnet analyst Ryan Dixon has outlined a scenario where the Maple Leafs, potentially frustrated by playoff shortcomings, make the unthinkable decision to move on from their marquee player. Despite Matthews being the dynamic offensive engine of the team, Dixon speculates that Toronto's management might ultimately decide a major change is necessary. The prediction hinges on a hypothetical situation where, after narrowly missing the postseason, the Leafs engage in a frank discussion with Matthews that culminates in a trade.
The proposed trade destination is the San Jose Sharks, with a return package centred around highly-touted prospect Michael Misa. This is not the only rumour swirling, however. Former NHL player and analyst Nick Kypreos has also fuelled speculation by mentioning a potential blockbuster deal involving Matthews and the Los Angeles Kings, especially following the eventual retirement of their veteran captain Anze Kopitar.
Why Would the Leafs Consider Trading Their Star?
Matthews, who signed a four-year, $53 million contract extension on August 23, 2023, is under contract through the 2027-28 NHL season. He is a foundational piece, having etched his name in franchise history as the fifth player to score 300 goals for the Leafs, joining legends like Mats Sundin (420) and Darryl Sittler (389). He further cemented his status by scoring his 400th career goal in a 4-0 win against the Buffalo Sabres on April 15, becoming the 110th player in NHL history to hit that milestone.
However, analysts point to a noticeable dip in his production this season as a potential catalyst for future tough decisions. With 15 goals and 12 assists in 33 games, his numbers are a significant drop from his Hart Trophy-winning form, where he scored over 60 goals and consistently produced at well over a point per game. While a single off-season doesn't define a career, it could influence long-term strategic thinking for the Maple Leafs' front office.
Contract, Legacy, and the Future of the Maple Leafs
The core of this speculation revolves around the year 2026, which would be ahead of the final years of Matthews' current deal. Trading him then would allow Toronto to recoup a massive haul of assets, like prospects and draft picks, rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency later. For a team that has struggled to translate regular-season success into deep playoff runs, such a radical reset becomes a topic of discussion among pundits.
Kypreos, while discussing the Kings' rumours, cautioned that any such move would likely be an off-season decision, not a mid-season trade. He also pushed back against the notion that Matthews' value has permanently diminished, stating he doesn't believe other teams view the centre as a diminished asset. The coming seasons will be critical in determining Matthews' trajectory and, by extension, the likelihood of this stunning prediction coming true.
For now, Auston Matthews remains the captain and face of the Toronto Maple Leafs. But according to NHL analysts, the winds of change could be blowing toward a future where one of the league's most electrifying players dons a different sweater.
