From the beginning of the offseason, new Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving indicated that re-signing Auston Matthews was his top priority.
On Wednesday, Treliving managed to cross that off his to-do list by inking the franchise center to a four-year extension worth a reported $53 million. The $13.25-million average annual value, which kicks in for the 2024-25 season, is the highest in the NHL.
Toronto was reportedly seeking a maximum-term extension, but the superstar opted for a shorter term. That should give him the opportunity to land one more massive contract.