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Auston Matthews Sends Clear Message to Maple Leafs Before Trade Deadline

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Mar 6, 2025 7:30 AM ET

With the NHL trade deadline approaching, Auston Matthews made his expectations clear—he wants the Toronto Maple Leafs to add pieces for a playoff push.

Following his head coach's comments on the same day, when Craig Berube stated his wish "to better our team" ahead of the deadline, Matthews issued an even stronger warning to the Leafs brass.

Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, the Leafs' captain acknowledged the growing competition across the league and emphasized the importance of strengthening the team before it's too late.

“We feel really confident, really good about our team and our group. But this time of year, obviously, you see teams adding, and you want to add as well,” Matthews said. “You look at our division, in particular. It’s obviously very tight, and we know management is gonna do the best they can.

“All we can do is just trust in them.“

"This time of year you see teams adding, and you want to add as well."

Auston Matthews chats about the #NHLTradeDeadline pic.twitter.com/RzAyV1Bv1z
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) March 5, 2025

Matthews admitted he’s aware of the moves happening around the league, and he doesn't want his team to miss out on the remaining players available in the market.

“I mean, of course, you’d love to see a boost," Matthews said. "I think, with the way that we've played this year and the position that we're in right now.”

Toronto remains in the mix for a third-line center and defensive depth, with names like Philadelphia Flyers forward Scott Laughton and St. Louis Blues captain Brayden Schenn linked to the team.

However, the market is tightening, especially after the Tampa Bay Lightning landed Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand in a major trade.

General manager Brad Treliving has kept his approach measured, stating that while the team wants to improve, they won’t take unnecessary risks.

“I like our team. I’d like to see if we can make it better by Friday,” Treliving said. "Maybe it’s not the sexy headline-grabbing move, but where are areas that you can shore up? And ultimately, what’s available? What’s the cost and how does it all fit in?”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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