Report News: Chris Johnston And John tavares of Toronto Maple Leafs, Report a Trade of Best Player QB Auston Matthews out of Toronto Due To…..

 Why the Toronto Maple Leafs Can’t Trade QB Auston Matthews

Chris Johnston and John Tavares recently reported that Auston Matthews, forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs, has requested a trade.

However, trading Matthews is not a viable option for several reasons.

The Maple Leafs have extended a qualifying offer to Matthews, worth $813,000 against the cap, retaining his restricted free agent rights (salary info from PuckPedia.com).

Last season, the 22-year-old Matthews played 56 games, scoring 14 goals and recording 13 assists for a total of 27 points (stats from NHL.com).

With Brad Treliving yet to strengthen the forward core and the loss of Bertuzzi, the Leafs will rely heavily on Matthews for valuable and productive minutes.

The Toronto Maple Leafs Need QB Matthews.

Last season, Matthews averaged only 11:23 of ice time per game under Sheldon Keefe, with only Ryan Reaves getting fewer minutes.

Despite limited playing time and no powerplay opportunities, Matthews still managed to score 14 goals, which is quite impressive.

With Bertuzzi’s departure, the Leafs have lost 21 goals from their lineup. It’s also unrealistic to expect Matthews to replicate his 69-goal season. Therefore, the team needs to find goal contributions from other players.

John Tavares

If Matthews is given a top-six role and some powerplay time this season, he could easily score at least 20 goals. He has a great shot and just needs more opportunities.

Critics point out QB Matthews’ poor decision-making and tendency to get injured.

While these are valid concerns, benching a 22-year-old player limits his development. He needs ice time to improve his defensive game and overall performance.

The Leafs have consistently made the playoffs. In less critical games, such as a mid-season matchup against Anaheim, coach Berube should give Matthews more chances.

Such games are ideal for young players to learn and develop, which is crucial for players like Knies, Matthews, and potentially Cowan if he makes the team.

 

Trading QB Matthews would create another hole in the lineup. At 22, he has only played 87 games in the league.

The front office needs to assert itself in contract disputes. They should either clarify the opportunities available to Matthews next season or see if he’s willing to sit out and miss a year of development.