Auston Matthews has a major decision to make regarding his future over the next year. The superstar goalscorer will be a free agent by next summer, and he has between now and then to work out a deal with the Maple Leafs. According to a new report, there may be some hiccups along the way.
Matthews Doesn't Want a Long-Term Deal
Elliotte Friedman reported that
Auston Matthews would rather sign a deal ranging between 3-6 years over one for the maximum duration of 8 years. This is likely so Matthews has ultimate control as a free agent once he hits his prime at around 30 years old.
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While this would be great for Matthews, it would be one of the worst scenarios for Toronto. They would either lose him at the end of that contract or have to pay him an even bigger raise than the one he's currently due for.
No Trade Clause? Good Job Kyle
As of July 1st,
Auston Matthews will have a no-trade clause that lasts until his contract expires. From then on, Toronto can't trade the center to gain assets back and would have to either give in and sign him on his terms, or lose him for nothing.
This is why it's so crucial for Toronto to try and get Matthews to agree to a contract before July 1st, that way they avoid the pressure of losing him for nothing.
This was real genius contract planning by former Leafs GM Kyle Dubas. A no-trade clause in the final year of his contract really hinders what the Leafs' management can do.
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