A recent comment made by Auston Matthews is creating quite a buzz and has people questioning his long-term plans

Many of the trusted insiders have emphasized that Matthews is likely to remain in Toronto long-term, barring a complete catastrophe, but it hasn't prevented many from talking about whether or not Matthews will stay or go in the summer of 2024. One of Matthews' latest comments is also adding fuel to the fire and drumming up conversations surrounding whether or not he has plans of signing with another Eastern Conference team.

During a "Leaf to Leaf" social media video released by the team on Sunday, Michael Bunting asked Matthews a series of questions in a "speed round" quiz. The reigning Rocket Richard Trophy winner and league MVP revealed that his favourite city to play in is probably New York "for lots of reasons". He also listed LA and Florida as nice locations to play in due to the weather, but it was the way he lit up when talking about New York that caught people's attention.

We can't presume to know what Matthews will do in a couple of summers, but if I had to bet, I'd put my money on Matthews signing the richest contract in NHL history with the Leafs, but nothing is a sure thing and anything could happen. Nevertheless, it won't stop people from talking between now and whenever he does choose to re-sign with the Buds. As bad as the chatter is now, I can't imagine what it's going to be like if he doesn't sign his extension on July 1st, 2023.