Auston Matthews, who has played exclusively for the Toronto Maple Leafs since being selected first overall in the 2016 NHL Draft, may see his career change locations before it ends. At 28 years old and yet to win a Stanley Cup, Matthews faces an uncertain future as his contract will still have two years remaining after the 2025-26 season. With speculation that the Maple Leafs could trade core players in the upcoming offseason, several NHL teams could emerge as potential buyers, particularly those based in the United States, where Matthews is originally from and recently won Olympic gold with Team U.S.A.
Why the New York Rangers could seek Matthews to boost their lineup
The New York Rangers have struggled to reach the playoffs this season but are in position to reshape their roster aggressively. With more than $28 million in salary cap space available this offseason, acquiring a player of Matthews’ caliber would be feasible. A reunion with Team U.S.A. head coach Mike Sullivan, who understands how to maximize Matthews’ abilities in both offensive and defensive play, could be particularly appealing. While New York’s media spotlight is intense, it is considered less unforgiving than the scrutiny Matthews has faced in Toronto. Adding Matthews could significantly strengthen the Rangers’ chances next season.
San Jose Sharks’ cap space and young stars make them a strong contender
The San Jose Sharks remain in the Western Conference playoff competition and could be positioned to make a push next season. They are rich in salary cap flexibility, holding over $54 million in available space this offseason. Building around emerging talents Macklin Celebrini and Michael Misa, the Sharks could use Matthews to solidify their roster. Pairing Matthews and Celebrini on the power play would likely create one of the league’s most dangerous offensive units and improve San Jose’s playoff prospects while allowing Matthews to return to playing in the U.S., specifically California.
Chicago Blackhawks eye Matthews to support rising star Connor Bedard
The Chicago Blackhawks, currently outside the playoff picture, may seek a bold move during the offseason to revive their fortunes. Their young phenom Connor Bedard would benefit from another bona fide star by his side, and Matthews fits that description perfectly. Chicago will have the second-highest cap space among NHL teams next offseason, with more than $48 million available. During the 2025-26 season, Matthews scored 26 goals and provided 25 assists in 54 games for Toronto, showing he can produce consistently. Chicago’s combination of Matthews and Bedard on power plays could be formidable. Additionally, the Blackhawks hold two first-round picks in the 2026 NHL Draft, including one acquired from the Florida Panthers, giving them further assets to facilitate a trade.
Implications of a Matthews trade and what to watch for next
A trade involving Auston Matthews this summer would be one of the most significant moves in the NHL offseason. With Matthews still under contract for another two years beyond 2025-26, and based on his demonstrated skill and recent Olympic success, several U.S.-based teams with ample salary cap space are logical suitors. The New York Rangers, San Jose Sharks, and Chicago Blackhawks each present compelling cases for why Matthews could fit well with their current rosters and long-term plans. Should the Maple Leafs decide to trade their star forward, the NHL landscape could shift dramatically next season, altering playoff dynamics and the balance of power in both conferences.
