Auston Matthews: 'Can't predict the future' with Leafs

Maple Leafs star forward uncertain about long-term future with team

Apr. 16, 2026 at 11:35pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting Auston Matthews' hockey movements broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in vibrant colors like royal blue, crimson red, and metallic silver, conceptually representing the uncertainty surrounding the star player's future with the Toronto Maple Leafs.Auston Matthews' uncertain future with the Maple Leafs is reflected in a cubist-inspired illustration that deconstructs the star forward's on-ice presence.Anaheim Today

Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews told reporters that he wasn't willing to speculate on his long-term future with the team after undergoing surgery to repair a torn medial collateral ligament in his left knee. Matthews, the 2021-22 Hart Memorial Trophy winner, said he's intent on letting the Maple Leafs' search for a new general manager play out before having any discussions about his contract, which expires after the 2027-28 season.

Why it matters

Matthews is the face of the Maple Leafs franchise and one of the NHL's top players, so his future with the team is a major storyline. The Maple Leafs missed the playoffs this season, adding uncertainty to the organization's direction and Matthews' long-term commitment.

The details

Matthews, 28, was injured after absorbing a knee-on-knee hit from Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas during a game on March 12. Gudas was suspended five games for the hit. Matthews finished the season with 53 points (27 goals, 26 assists) in 60 games. The Maple Leafs fired general manager Brad Treliving on March 30 and are currently searching for a replacement.

  • On March 12, Matthews was injured after a knee-on-knee hit from Radko Gudas.
  • On March 30, the Maple Leafs fired general manager Brad Treliving.

The players

Auston Matthews

The 28-year-old captain of the Toronto Maple Leafs and the 2021-22 Hart Memorial Trophy winner as the NHL's most valuable player.

Radko Gudas

The Anaheim Ducks defenseman who was suspended five games for the knee-on-knee hit that injured Auston Matthews.

Brad Treliving

The former general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, who was fired on March 30.

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What they’re saying

“I mean, I can't predict the future. Obviously, there's steps that kind of have to take place. They're going to hire new leadership in management and stuff like that. So, you know, I don't really know.”

— Auston Matthews, Toronto Maple Leafs captain

“We're not even at that point yet. Obviously, we're still in the searching phase, I guess you can say, for them. So, I think when those conversations come and when the time comes, those conversations will just happen organically.”

— Auston Matthews, Toronto Maple Leafs captain

What’s next

The Maple Leafs will continue their search for a new general manager, which could impact Auston Matthews' long-term future with the team.

The takeaway

Auston Matthews' uncertain future with the Maple Leafs highlights the instability within the organization after a disappointing season and the firing of the general manager. Matthews' comments suggest he's willing to wait and see how the team's leadership changes unfold before committing to a long-term deal.