Auston Matthews trade rumors swirl among NHL analysts as they predict a big trade by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2026 (Image via Imagn Images) As speculations regarding Auston Matthews’ trade have mounted, another rumor is swirling around the corner that the Vegas Golden Knights are reportedly planning to reunite Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. Reports suggest that the possibility of a reunion between Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner is gaining traction, as uncertainty surrounding the Toronto Maple Leafs’ future will open the door to potential blockbuster moves.Marner, who joined Vegas in a sign-and-trade deal in 2025 on an eight-year, $96 million contract, has quickly become a key offensive driver for the Golden Knights, and during their time in Toronto, Matthews and Marner combined for hundreds of goals and were widely regarded as one of the NHL’s elite pairings. Amidst his trade speculations, top NHL teams like the San Jose Sharks and the Utah Mammoth have emerged as potential trade fits for Matthews, if the Maple Leafs star decides to move. Now, as rumors suggest, the Golden Knights have joined the bandwagon to acquire Matthews.
NHL rumors link the Vegas Golden Knights to a potential Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner reunion
The Vegas Golden Knights have emerged in rumors, as reports are hinting at the possibility of a blockbuster move involving Auston Matthews. Rumors are floating that the Vegas Golden Knights are possibly trying to form a reunion of both Matthews and Marner by acquiring the Maple Leafs captain.This assumption arose as the Maple Leafs captain, Auston Matthews, has been dominating the headlines amid trade speculation.The idea is to bring them together as the duo was the most offensive pair in the league during their time with the Toronto Maple Leafs, consistently driving scoring and playmaking.
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Matthews leaves door open on future in Toronto | Insider TradingFollowing the early exit, Auston Matthews had the full opportunity to reinforce his full commitment to the Toronto Maple Leafs, but instead, he left the door open for anything. When asked about his future with the Leafs, Matthews stated, “I can’t really predict the future,” adding that it’s an honor to be captain and wear the jersey, but he’s unsure what lies ahead with new leadership coming.Though the player has shown confidence and taken accountability for the team despite the loss, his comments did not sound fully confident or strongly committed to staying with the Maple Leafs. He is not completely sure of staying with the team.However, according to YarkBarker, while the idea of reunion in the Vegas Golden Knights seems exciting, the trade is unlikely. Even after an injury-hit season, Matthews still has very high value, and unless he pushes for a move, Toronto is likely to get better offers elsewhere.Meanwhile, the 28-year-old forward will also be entering year three of the four-year, $53 million extension he signed with the Maple Leafs in 2023 next season, making the trade possible only if at all the Golden Knights move with the decision; however, it is still speculation, and nothing has been confirmed so far.