Auston Matthews’ future in Toronto is reportedly dependent on what the Toronto Maple Leafs’ new management can do this off-season.

According to The Athletic’s Chris Johnston, there are currently no guarantees that the Arizona native will be back with the Leafs for the 2026-27 season.

Chris Johnston

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New, for @TheAthletic: Auston Matthews isn't yet sure if he'll be back in Toronto next season. The Maple Leafs are on the clock with their captain 🔗⬇️ nytimes.com/athletic/72539… nytimes.com/athletic/72539…

10:31 AM · May 5, 2026

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“Matthews has two years remaining on his contract, but still isn’t sure if he’ll be back in Toronto in the fall, according to league sources,” Johnston wrote.

On Monday, the Leafs added John Chayka as the new general manager, and former captain and Hall of Famer Mats Sundin as a senior executive adviser of hockey operations. Now, Matthews is already challenging the new arrivals to make substantial moves that make a return to Toronto seem appealing to the superstar centre.

The Leafs finished second last in the Atlantic Division this year with 38 wins and 78 points. This was the first time the team has missed the playoffs in the Matthews era.

“The only sales pitch Matthews needs at this stage is real action, according to league sources,” Johnston added. “Before committing to another season in Toronto, he wants to see a roster that has been meaningfully upgraded through trades and free agency. This isn’t about selling him on a fancy 12-point plan or a bunch of vague promises. Seeing is believing.”

Matthews signed a four-year, $53-million contract in 2023 that began in the 2024-25 season. His contract includes a no-movement clause that ultimately gives Matthews the final say in where he ends up, limiting the Leafs’ potential return for one of the best players in the league.

“At best, you’d be........

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