The Toronto Maple Leafs' new braintrust of John Chayka and Mats Sundin have yet to have their mano-a-mano conversation with captain Auston Matthews. But when they do, they hope to find out what his intentions are. Does he want to stay in Toronto for the remaining two years of his contract? Or does he want out after the club's tire fire last season?
If Matthews wants to go out, he'll likely indicate his favorite destinations. Or at least he will be asked. But if the Leafs were to get the best return from their rookie, insider Jeff Marek proposed on DFO Rundown that the Utah Mammoth would be 'at the front of the line' to make a deal.
If Toronto has to make a decision on Auston Matthews, we'll all wonder about Los Angeles. But he does not have property. You know who does? Utah. Utah is uniquely positioned. If that happens (Matthews is asking), you could potentially move Utah closer to, if not the front of the line..
If you're going to be a team (like the Leafs) that wants to rebuild, and rebuild quickly? Utah has some prime candidates and some excellent young players they can look to.
Marek's compatriot, DFO Rundown host Jason Gregor, said Mammoth would like to add some size along with skill to his mix. He didn’t mention Matthews, but the 6’3″, 215-pounder is exactly that. His two-way game would be a tremendous headliner for the top of their growing lineup.
Matthews has great connections to the Mammoth staff.
Sportsnet insider Nick Kyprios is another who sees a clear connection between the former Phoenix-based team (home of Matthews) and the Leafs' $13.25 million man.
"There is speculation in my inner circle that the Utah Mammoth are looking at this situation, as they have some close friends of Matthews' on their roster, including Clayton Keller."
Matthews and Keller played together with the USHL Under-18 team in 2014–15. The Leafs captain grew up in Scottsdale and went to Arizona Coyotes games as a young player. Yotes legend Shane Donn was one of Matthews' heroes growing up. Reuniting with that organization, even if in a new location, will likely be attractive to him.
The Mammoths appear to be a team on the rise, with a number of exciting young players. He took a big step forward this season, leading Utah to the playoffs for the first time with a wild card berth.
The Leafs made a big move today and fired head coach Craig Berube prior to any negotiations with Matthews. We will see how this affects the captain's thoughts later on.
