The rumor mill is churning, and one hypothetical trade proposal has sent the NHL world spiraling: Auston Matthews to the Detroit Red Wings. While the idea of the Maple Leafs' star center donning the Winged Wheel might excite Detroit fans, a closer examination reveals why this scenario is highly improbable, if not outright "silly season" fodder.
First and foremost, Auston Matthews controls his destiny. The 28-year-old carries a full no-movement clause (NMC) through the 2027-28 season. This means he cannot be traded without his explicit consent. Unless Matthews informs the Maple Leafs that he desires a change of scenery, any trade talk is purely speculative. Toronto's General Manager, Brad Treliving, has also shut down any trade rumors regarding their captain.
Some reports suggest that Matthews' production has dipped, and he has a "complicated relationship with fans". While his current season stats of 15 goals and 12 assists in 33 games might be considered "disappointing numbers" for a player of his caliber, it's premature to assume he's unhappy in Toronto or that the Maple Leafs are ready to move on from their star.
Even if Matthews were to waive his NMC, the cost of acquiring him would be astronomical. One proposed trade package included Lucas Raymond, Axel Sandin-Pellikka, Michael Brandsegg-Nygard, and two future first-round picks heading to Toronto. That is a massive overpayment that would weaken Detroit's young core. While the Red Wings have the cap space to absorb Matthews' $13.25 million cap hit, gutting their prospect pool and young talent for one player is a risky proposition.
For the Maple Leafs, trading Matthews would signal a complete dismantling of their core. Despite another uneven season, the Leafs have publicly stated that they aren't interested in a rebuild. Trading Matthews, the "face, heart, and soul of the franchise," would contradict this message. While some analysts suggest the Leafs might consider moving on from Matthews if they miss the playoffs and he's not interested in re-signing long-term, that is still a long way off.
Other teams have been mentioned as potential destinations for Matthews. Sportsnet writer Ryan Dixon suggested that the Maple Leafs might trade Matthews to the San Jose Sharks for a package built around top prospect Michael Misa. Another report mentioned the Los Angeles Kings as a possible landing spot, especially with Anze Kopitar's career winding down.
While the idea of Matthews in Detroit is enticing, the multiple hurdles make it a highly unlikely scenario. As of December 2025, Matthews remains a Maple Leaf, and any talk of a trade to Detroit or elsewhere should be taken with a grain of salt. It's merely "silly season" speculation at its finest.
