Toronto Maple Leafs: What Matthews’ extension means going forward

By David Morassutti | Feb 9, 2019

Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs waits for a faceoff against the Colorado Avalanche during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images) /

Auston Matthews put pen to paper on a new contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, who now look to get more moves done.

It was a big week for the Toronto Maple Leafs and Auston Matthews with the long-awaited contract extension getting done and to no ones surprise, the opinions of the deal are mixed.

On the latest episode of the Tip of the Tower podcast, David Morassutti and Austin Owens look at the aftermath of the Matthews’ deal, including the comments made by Mitch Marner‘s agent Darren Ferris. They also discuss more trade deadline rumours and preview an important game against the Montreal Canadiens

Here is a summary of what to look for on the latest episode, which you can also listen to below or download using this link.

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David and Austin start the podcast by giving their initial thoughts on the Leafs getting Matthews locked up for the next five years and whether the term was long enough?

Both respond to Brian Burke’s comments about the contract and look back at his track record in Toronto and why it is tough to justify his criticism towards Kyle Dubas.

They also compare the deal to what other star players signed and whether the team is going in the right direction, considering what they need to do next. How much will offer sheets play into that, especially with Andreas Johnsson and Kasperi Kapanen as potential targets?

Comments made by Marner’s agent couldn’t have come at a worse time, as it brought unnecessary attention for the forward. David and Austin discuss what this means for negotiations going forward and how much the team should be looking to pay the winger.

Are the Leafs done making moves? There have been some rumours with one team still being linked to the team and they look like the most ideal trade partner ahead of the deadline. Obviously, Toronto would have to clear salary by moving a player with some term.

To conclude the podcast, David and Auston look at what Saturday’s game between the Leafs and Canadiens could mean, especially with the playoff picture becoming clearer. Is there any reason to think Toronto won’t be able to win against their Original Six rival?

Next. Wayne Simmonds unlikely addition despite reports. dark

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