Flyers Insider Floats Hypothetical Auston Matthews Trade to Philadelphia

The 28-year-old Matthews just finished the second year of the four-year, $53 million extension he signed with the Maple Leafs in 2023. He tallied 53 points (27 goals, 26 assists) in 60 games played this season. 

While it remains unknown whether Matthews is actually available, the longer there’s silence regarding his commitment to staying in Toronto, the more these rumors will continue to surface.

The Flyers—like almost every other team in the league—would make plenty of sense as a landing spot, though it’s fair to wonder whether the Maple Leafs would consider such a deal without someone like Matvei Michkov or Porter Martone included. If this were the 69-goal version of Matthews we were talking about, that would be a must. But after back-to-back down seasons (33 goals, 27 goals) and some injury concerns, Toronto may not be in a position to dismiss this kind of offer outright.

Zegras—the likely preferred option over Tippett—has had a resurgent season and looks more like a star again. Luchanko and Bonk are both highly drafted prospects that still have plenty of potential, and draft picks are always valuable for a team that could be heading toward a rebuild if Matthews is moved.

What may stand in the way more than anything, however, is Matthews’ full no-movement clause. Would he be willing to waive it to join a Philadelphia team that doesn’t appear to be particularly close to contention? It’s hard to know what he’s thinking, but it’s equally hard to imagine them landing near the top of his preferred destinations.

Nonetheless, it’s a fascinating proposal, and we can expect more ideas like this to surface in the coming weeks and months until there’s more clarity on Matthews’ situation.