Leafs' Auston Matthews shockingly linked to Western Conference team in trade talks

Nov 3, 2024; Saint Paul, Minnesota, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs center Auston Matthews (34) looks on during a game between the Minnesota Wild and Toronto Maple Leafs at Xcel Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-Imagn Images | Brace Hemmelgarn-Imagn ImagesThe Toronto Maple Leafs have had a very disappointing season and are set to miss the postseason for the first time since 2015-16, just one season after winning the Atlantic Division and going on their furthest playoff run in this era of Maple Leafs hockey.

These disappointments could lead to big decisions in the offseason that could alter their future for countless seasons to come. Auston Matthews has become a player who has…