NHL Insider Predicts Humongous Payday for Auston Matthews

After this season, the Toronto Maple Leafs can begin extension talks with franchise center Auston Matthews. Naturally, given his immense importance to the team, the Leafs need to do all they can to sign him long-term. In his recent Daily Faceoff piece, Frank Seravalli predicted that the Leafs will sign

Matthews to an eight-year, $133.6 million ($16.7 million AAV) contract extension on July 1st, 2023.

Boy, what a hot take. Yet, it also isn't out of the question, either. Matthews is one of the best players in the sport, and the salary cap is projected to increase significantly over the next few years. Yet, if he were to sign this league-changing contract, he would be the highest-paid player in the league by a country mile. Keep in mind, Nathan MacKinnon will hold this title starting in 2023-24, as he will carry a $12.6 million cap hit.

The real question is, should the Leafs give this kind of deal to Matthews? Will they have no choice given his eventual UFA status and immense skill level? Nevertheless, let's see if Seravalli's prediction comes true next summer.