Toronto Maple Leafs: What does agency change means for Auston Matthews?
Reports surfaced Wednesday saying that Auston Matthews has changed his representation just as he is eligible to sign a new extension with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
It is not uncommon for athletes to change agents but in the case of Auston Matthews, this decision is getting some attention especially with many wondering what this means for the Toronto Maple Leafs.
As TSN reported, the decision came when Judd Moldaver decided to make the move from CAA to the Orr-Wasserman group with Matthews deciding to follow his agent rather than stay with Patt Brisson.
Obviously many wonder how this impacts his future contract negotiations with the Leafs as he’s allowed to get an extension signed on July 1st. Bobby Orr‘s group represented Connor McDavid when he signed his deal with the Edmonton Oilers with Matthews in a similar situation.
Does that mean Matthews’ agent will try to get the same deal for his client? Most likely, it is job to do so. At the same time, it is unlikely that any player will match or make more than McDavid which obviously favours the Leafs.
More from Tip of the Tower
- Cam Phillips making his mark on Toronto Argonauts offence
- Toronto Argonauts: 4 storylines ahead of matchup against Redblacks
- Federico Bernardeschi ready for new challenge with Toronto FC
- Toronto Argonauts overcome Roughriders in entertaining Touchdown Atlantic
- Buffalo Bills: Von Miller drawing inspiration from Bruce Smith
Moldaver will likely try to get Matthews’ contract handled as soon as possible rather than wait the year out and for good reason. The team also needs to consider what they want to give William Nylander and Mitch Marner which will easier once they know what Matthews will cost.
Along with McDavid, the Orr-Wasserman group also represents Taylor Hall, Ryan Ellis, Aaron Ekblad, Jeff Carter and one of the top free agents this offseason John Carlson. That is an impressive group of notable NHL players.
On the other hand, the CAA group led by Brisson also has an impressive group led by Sidney Crosby, John Tavares, Evgeni Malkin, Jonathan Toews, David Pastrnak, and many more.
This is clearly a loyalty thing for Matthews as Moldaver was instrumental in bringing Matthews to CAA according to Michael Traikos of Postmedia. Regardless, the Leafs probably have a plan for Matthews and changing agencies probably does not impact his contract situation that much.
Next: Mats Sundin offers thoughts on Auston Mathews as captain
Do you think Matthews’ decision will have an impact on his negotiations or is it overblown? Let us know in the comments below.