Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews feelings are clear after trade rumors

After a bunch of trade rumors, Auston Matthews doesn't seem to be going anywhere.

That's probably good news for the Toronto Maple Leafs, who keep their captain and top-tier goal scorer.

The 2025-26 season may not have been his, or the team's, best. But there's always next year, and the new season can't arrive quickly enough for the Maple Leafs.

They've got a new front office, a new coach, and a new phenom -- Gavin McKenna, the No. 1 overall pick. 

Matthews will still be at the heart of everything they do.

MORE: Alex Ovechkin finally decides on his future

Are the Maple Leafs keeping Auston Matthews?

Matthews is still a key component to Toronto's plans.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman revealed the full feelings of the Leafs toward Matthews on his latest 32 Thoughts podcast this week.

“I think the whole organization feels this way," Friedman said. "They really believe that Matthews is still the elite of the elite. They are hoping he shows up healthy and ready to go, and he drives the bus.”

That's a solid take, of course. Matthews does drive the bus.

If he bounces back and is a superstar, the Maple Leafs should be pretty good.

If Matthews has another struggling campaign, it could be rough for Toronto.

At this point, it's clear a trade isn't happening. What comes next will depend on how good Matthews can be in the season ahead.

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