Ex-Leaf shares highly controversial take on the Leafs in relation to Auston Matthews

Among forwards, Matthews is 3rd in blocked shots and 5th in takeaways. On top of that, he's only taken 2 minor penalties this season. An argument could be made that Matthews should be in the conversation for the Hart, Ted Lindsay, Selke and Lady Byng Trophies on top of the Rocket Richard Trophy he seems well on his way to to reclaiming. Yeah, he's been that good.

It was this absolutely ridiculous level of play that prompted Carlo Colaiacovo's bold words on TSN 1050's First Up.

In Coalicovo's opinion, the Leafs should be prepared to empty the cabinets completely. Picks, prospects, even young NHLers, if the deal will make the team better. We have this year and four more with Matthews on the roster as a guarantee. After that, there's always a chance that he leaves. Every year between now and then should be spent going for it.

On some level, I agree. There's no such thing as a throwaway year with Matthews on the roster. The only caveat I would add is that trading away a prospect that has a solid chance of becoming an impact player during Matthews' tenure; players like Knies, Minten and Cowan, should only be considered if the return is not only an impact player, but one with term. Auston Matthews is the best hockey player to ever don the blue and white. He needs to be given every chance to lead this team to a Stanley Cup.

See below for Colaiacovo's full comments on the matter.