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Oklahoma linebacker Owen Heinecke granted an extra year of eligibility for 2026 after court ruling.
Auston Matthews expressed uncertainty about his future with the Toronto Maple Leafs, stating he can't predict what will happen next. His comments have sparked trade rumors as the team looks to hire new management.
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Auston Matthews might be the biggest storyline of the 2026 NHL offseason. After a tough season for the Toronto Maple Leafs, there have been rumors that Matthews could request a trade to a different team. However, what does the Toronto superstar think about his future in the organization?
After the Maple Leafs finished the 2025-26 NHL season, Matthews commented on his future in Toronto. The comments certainly indicate that nothing is guaranteed.
âI canât predict the future,â Matthews said. âThere are steps that kind of have to take place. Theyâre gonna hire new leadership at management and stuff like that. So, I donât really know. Like I said, I canât really predict the future.â
Instead of committing to the Maple Leafs, Matthews chose to step into the middle. Toronto has some decisions to make, and it could affect the 28-year-oldâs future with the organization.
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The speculation with Matthews isnât going to end anytime soon. After missing the playoffs for the first time in his career, the Maple Leafs star could be on a new team if he requests a trade. As of now, Matthews has two years left on his four-year contract with a $13.25 million cap hit. However, what would lead to a possible trade request?
Auston Matthews stated, 'I canât predict the future,' indicating uncertainty about his future with the team.
Yes, there are rumors that Auston Matthews could request a trade following a tough season for the Maple Leafs.
The Maple Leafs are in the process of hiring new leadership at management, which could impact Matthews' decision about his future.

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There are questions about Torontoâs future in the NHL. After firing general manager Brad Treliving late in the season, the Maple Leafs have a void in their management. This has created questions about the teamâs direction and whether it will be back in the Stanley Cup Playoffs anytime soon. If it is a rebuild, Matthews could want out.
Plus, Toronto has only won two playoff series since Matthews was drafted in 2016. Despite the talent on the roster, the Maple Leafs havenât made the Eastern Conference finals since 2002. It is shocking to see a team with so much talent fail to meet the expectations set around the NHL.
Matthews said he âlovesâ being the captain of the Maple Leafs; however, he didnât give a definitive answer on whether Toronto is the place he wants to play. It ultimately might come down to the new leadership, their direction, and whether Matthews believes he can win a Stanley Cup Finals in Toronto.
If not, Matthews could request a trade from the Maple Leafs as early as this summer.
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