Why the Maple Leafs can still rebuild without trading Auston Matthews

Fansided | March 3, 2026

The idea that the Toronto Maple Leafs can't rebuild while Auston Matthews is here, is an insane statement

Feb 26, 2026; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews (34) moves the puck against the Florida Panthers during the first period at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

The idea that the Toronto Maple Leafs can't rebuild because they have Auston Matthews is insane.

Although Matthews is arugbably the greatest player to ever play for the Leafs and a top-10 player in the world, he can't single-handedly guide this team to a Stanley Cup.