Media member claims Auston Matthews plans to follow in Gaudreau's footsteps and leave Toronto

There has been a lot of criticism of Johnny Gaudreau for his decision to leave the Flames and move closer to his home. It's very similar criticism to that which was received by John Tavares when he made a similar decision. Now could Auston Matthews be in a similar situation?

When Kyle Dubas signed Matthews to a 5-year contract everyone noted it walked Matthews to the earliest date for unrestricted free agency possible. Fans were furious with the deal and in 2 years they could be even more upset.

According to Michael Traikos it's very possible that Matthews considers leaving Toronto for Los Angeles, San Jose, Anaheim or Arizona. 3 of the 4 locations are within 2 hours of his home and the other is home.

Traikos believes that the final decision will come down to where Matthews is most likely to win a Stanley Cup. Given the off-season the Maple Leafs have had, it's not hard to see, Kyle Dubas and his commitment to the Core 4 has negatively impacted the Leafs and their ability to compete in the stacked Atlantic. Especially from a depth perspective.

Previously on Bladeofsteel

NHL reveals full list of players who filed for arbitration and which stars didn't

Patrik Laine makes big decision about his future in Columbus

Vancouver Canucks grant goalie permission to seek a trade after he tells team he's unhappy

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18 JUILLET \| 1342 ANSWERS Media member claims Auston Matthews plans to follow in Gaudreau's footsteps and leave Toronto Where will Auston Matthews play on 2 years?
Toronto	507	37.8 %
Arizona	253	18.9 %
Los Angeles	367	27.3 %
Other	215	16 %
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