Dubas and Shanahan comment on Auston Matthews and what happens after the final 2 years of his contract
The big question on everyone's minds when it comes to the Leafs is what's going to happen when Auston Matthews' current contract expires? There is significant chatter going around that it's a bit of a countdown until Matthews walks as a UFA, while some of the more sensible fans realize that the Leafs are absolutely going to back the Brinks truck up to Matthews' doorstep and make him the highest paid player in the NHL and have him remain in Toronto throughout his entire prime.
On Tuesday, Leafs GM Kyle Dubas and President Brendan Shanahan spoke to the media on locker room cleanout day, revealing what their thoughts on Matthews entering the final two years of his deal and what might come next. Dubas has full faith in Matthews coming back, as he has been very vocal about his love for the city and about wanting to win with the Leafs.
"I don't view it as a doomsday clock. We're fortunate to have him under contract for the next 2 years. He wants to win in Toronto.
He believes that we're close and he's going to be a big part of getting us there."
-Dubas on Auston Matthews
He believes that we're close and he's going to be a big part of getting us there."
-Dubas on Auston Matthews
Similarly, Shanahan believes that Matthews embodies what it is to be a Leaf and has far exceeded every single expectation that the team has had for him since the organization drafted him 1st overall in 2016.
"Auston has embraced being a Leaf. I agree with Kyle in that we'd like to make him a leaf forever. He's grown into a man and a leader. He's been fantastic for us in every aspect."
-Shanahan on Auston Matthews
-Shanahan on Auston Matthews
Now, of course there is still time between now and when Matthews' deal expires in two years, so there is certainly a chance that he changes his mind, but by all appearances, we're going to see Matthews in a Leafs jersey for a long, long time.
| POLL | ||
MAI 17 | 56 ANSWERS Dubas and Shanahan comment on Auston Matthews and what happens after the final 2 years of his contract Will Auston Matthews sign an extension to remain in Toronto when he becomes eligible? | ||
| Yes, he'll sign as soon as he's eligible | 33 | 58.9 % |
| No, but he will sign on UFA day in 2024 | 12 | 21.4 % |
| No, he'll walk as a UFA | 10 | 17.9 % |
| No, he'll be traded | 1 | 1.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
MUST READ
TRENDING NOW
