NHL analyst makes bold 2026 Maple Leafs prediction involving blockbuster Auston Matthews trade

The Toronto Maple Leafs could be headed for a franchise-altering decision in 2026 if a bold prediction from Sportsnet analyst Ryan Dixon proves true.

In his list of Bold NHL Predictions for 2026, Dixon suggested that Toronto’s ongoing struggles may eventually force management into a dramatic reset, one that would involve moving the face of the franchise.

Dixon wrote that after narrowly missing the playoffs, the Maple Leafs would sit down with captain Auston Matthews for a candid discussion that ultimately leads to a blockbuster trade.

“After missing the playoffs by two points, the Leafs will have a cards-on-the-table talk with captain Auston Matthews that results in him being dealt to the Sharks for a package built around Michael Misa,” he wrote.

The scenario is extreme but it reflects the growing pressure surrounding Toronto’s core. The Maple Leafs currently sit on the outside of the playoff picture with a record of 16-15-6 placing them 8th in the Atlantic Division.

Matthews, meanwhile, remains productive but below his usual dominant pace. Through late December, he has 15 goals and 12 assists in 33 games. While still one of the NHL’s premier goal scorers, this is a dip from his MVP-level seasons where he regularly scored 60+ goals and consistently produced over a point-per-game.

Michael Misa, the centerpiece of the proposed trade package, is one of hockey’s brightest young talents. The 18-year-old Canadian center was granted exceptional status to enter the OHL early and went on to dominate junior hockey. In the 2024-25 OHL season, Misa recorded 62 goals and 72 assists for 134 points in 68 games leading the league in scoring and earning MVP honors.

Drafted 2nd overall by the San Jose Sharks in 2025, he is widely regarded as a future franchise cornerstone and if Dioxn’s prediction comes true he could be the future face of the Leafs.

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Former NHLer speculates Auston Matthews to LA trade

Earlier last week, former NHL player and analyst Nick Kypreos sparked trade speculation by suggesting that the Maple Leafs could consider a blockbuster deal involving Auston Matthews and the Los Angeles Kings.

Speaking on a recent episode of Real Kyper & Bourne, Kypreos said the move could be mutually beneficial as the Kings prepare for a post-Anze Kopitar era.

“I do believe that this is not something that can happen during this season. This is a summer decision, and I don't also buy that this is Auston for the rest of his career, that he's just a 30-goal scorer and he's just going to completely fall off. I don't believe that other teams look at him going, "This is the Auston Matthews I'm going to trade for. I don't want him." I don't believe in that either,” Kypreos said.

With Kopitar nearing the end of his career, Kypreos argued that Matthews’ California roots make him a natural fit for the team. He suggested the superstar could flourish in a lower-pressure environment compared to Toronto.

“And I think that there are places out there and I don't know if you want to hold me to this like Auston Matthews to the LA Kings is the play. That's the move.”

Kypreos further noted that while the Kings had previously held out for Connor McDavid, Matthews could be the next best option.

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Edited by Anjum Rajonno