Toronto Maple Leafs superstar Auston Matthews has two years left on his current deal. Per the NHL's collective bargaining agreement, the Maple Leafs can't offer an extension to Matthews until July 1 of 2027. No matter what decision he makes, the direction the Maple Leafs choose to take from here hinges entirely on what Matthews decides to do with his next contract. Maple Leafs need long-term deal for MatthewsIf the Maple Leafs are serious about trying to contend with this core, they need to extend Matthews for as long (and as much) as they possibly can. Franchise direction revolves around MatthewsWhat the Maple Leafs and Matthews decide to do from here will have a ripple effect for the next decade -- if not more.