Overview
- New GM John Chayka has spoken with Auston Matthews’ agent, Judd Moldaver, and is arranging a meeting with Matthews and senior advisor Mats Sundin to present his plan.
- Athletic reporting relayed by The Hockey News says Chayka’s first priority is winning Matthews’ buy-in on the club’s direction.
- Matthews has two years left on his contract, wants to stay in Toronto, but remains undecided and could seek a trade if he dislikes the plan.
- Chayka praised Matthew Knies as a “really unique” long-term piece, even as earlier reports indicated the previous regime tested Knies’ trade value.
- The Leafs hold the No. 1 pick after the draft lottery and still face calls on coaching and blue line moves, decisions that could stretch Matthews’ decision into early to mid-July.