Auston Matthews, C
While an Auston Matthews trade still feels extremely unlikely, major front-office changes and organizational uncertainty with the Toronto Maple Leafs could at least create speculation surrounding the franchise’s long-term direction. In that case, if Toronto pivots organizationally, Matthews would instantly become the biggest name potentially available.
Acquiring Matthews would almost certainly require a massive return involving premium prospects, draft capital, and NHL-ready talent. Franchise-caliber centers rarely become available, making Matthews the type of superstar talent teams would have to seriously evaluate if he ever reached the market.
It was reported this past week by Chris Johnston of The Athletic that there is some uncertainty in discussions between the two sides between Matthews and the Maple Leafs' front office early this offseason. If organizational tensions between Matthews and Toronto were ever to escalate, the Maple Leafs could eventually be forced to at least evaluate blockbuster trade possibilities this offseason. And I would expect a big return for the superstar Matthews in that hypothetical scenario this offseason.
Matthews would immediately solve the Kings’ long-standing need for a true elite offensive center while dramatically changing the ceiling of the organization moving forward.
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