In a blockbuster move that sent shockwaves through the hockey world, the Toronto Maple Leafs have secured their star center, Auston Matthews, for the foreseeable future. The team officially announced on Wednesday that Matthews has inked a lucrative four-year, $53 million contract extension. This deal has set a new standard in the NHL, making Matthews the highest-paid player annually with an average annual value of $13.25 million.
Matthews was clearly excited about this development, taking to social media to express his sentiments. He wrote, “I feel fortunate to continue this journey as a Maple Leaf in front of the best fans in hockey! I will do everything I can to help get us to the top of the mountain. GLG! #LeafsForever.” It’s clear that Matthews is not just committed to the team but also to the passionate fanbase that supports him.
This contract extension comes with one year remaining on Matthews’ current five-year, $58.2 million deal, which he signed back in 2019. This move demonstrates the Maple Leafs’ unwavering faith in their star player, and they are willing to make him the highest-paid player in the league to ensure he stays in Toronto.
Matthews, at just 25 years old, has already established himself as one of the NHL’s premier talents. During the 2022-23 regular season, he tallied an impressive 85 points, with 40 goals and 45 assists in just 74 games. His stellar performance continued into the postseason, where he contributed 11 points, including five goals and six assists, in 11 games.
The Maple Leafs drafted Matthews as the No. 1 pick in the 2016 NHL Draft, and since then, he has been a force to be reckoned with. In his seven NHL seasons, he’s accumulated 542 points, consisting of 299 goals and 243 assists, in 481 career regular-season contests. Notably, Matthews has also thrived in playoff situations, with 22 goals and 22 assists in 50 Stanley Cup Playoff games.
In the illustrious history of the Toronto Maple Leafs, Matthews has already etched his name into the record books. He currently shares fifth place in goals scored (299) and is tied for second in overtime goals (nine). Additionally, he ranks fourth in game-winning goals, fifth in power-play goals (76), and 11th in total points (542).
Matthews’ standout season came in 2021-22 when he clinched the Hart Trophy as the league’s MVP. During that remarkable campaign, he tallied an astounding 106 points, including 60 goals and 46 assists, becoming the first player in franchise history to achieve a 60-goal season.
This phenomenal player’s accolades don’t stop there. In the same season, Matthews was honored with the Ted Lindsay Award as the most outstanding regular-season player and secured the Rocket Richard Trophy in consecutive campaigns (2020-21 and 2021-22) as the NHL’s leading goal scorer.
With this contract extension, Auston Matthews has not only solidified his status as the face of the Toronto Maple Leafs but also as the highest-paid player in the NHL. It’s a testament to his incredible talent and his importance to the franchise’s future. Leafs fans can rest easy knowing that their star center is here to stay, and he’s ready to lead the team to new heights on the ice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about NHL Contract Extension
What is the significance of Auston Matthews’ contract extension?
Auston Matthews’ contract extension with the Toronto Maple Leafs is significant because it makes him the highest-paid player in the NHL with an average annual value of $13.25 million. This sets a new standard for player contracts in the league.
How long is Auston Matthews’ contract extension?
Matthews’ contract extension is for four years, keeping him with the Toronto Maple Leafs for the foreseeable future. This extension kicks in after his current five-year, $58.2 million contract, which has one year remaining.
What are Auston Matthews’ career achievements?
Auston Matthews has had an impressive career, with accolades including the Hart Trophy as the league’s MVP, the Ted Lindsay Award as the most outstanding regular-season player, and consecutive Rocket Richard Trophies as the NHL’s leading goal scorer. He’s also known for achieving a historic 60-goal season in 2021-22.
How has Auston Matthews performed on the ice?
Matthews has been a standout performer for the Maple Leafs, consistently tallying high point totals both in the regular season and playoffs. In the 2022-23 regular season, he scored 85 points, and in the previous postseason, he contributed 11 points in just 11 games.
Where does Auston Matthews rank among Maple Leafs’ all-time leaders?
Auston Matthews is already making his mark in the franchise’s history books. He’s tied for fifth in goals scored, tied for second in overtime goals, and ranks highly in game-winning goals, power-play goals, and total points among the Maple Leafs’ all-time leaders.
What is Auston Matthews’ role in the Toronto Maple Leafs?
Auston Matthews is not only a star player for the Maple Leafs but also a leader both on and off the ice. His contract extension demonstrates the team’s commitment to building around him and striving for success in the NHL.
More about NHL Contract Extension
- Auston Matthews Signs Historic Contract Extension – NHL official news on Matthews’ contract extension.
- Auston Matthews’ Career Stats – Detailed statistics of Auston Matthews’ career performance.
- Toronto Maple Leafs Official Website – Official website of the Toronto Maple Leafs for updates and news on the team.
- NHL Awards – Information on NHL awards, including the Hart Trophy and the Rocket Richard Trophy.
