As the Toronto Maple Leafs continue to navigate the fallout from another early playoff exit, NHL insider Frank Seravalli floated a drastic idea that could change the team’s outlook from top to bottom.

Despite having a 2024-25 season that would qualify as the best year for many NHL players, Toronto Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews didn't live up to his usual standard because of a lingering injury.

Matthews' 33 goals were the fewest of his nine NHL seasons, and he had 78 points in 67 games, down from his NHL career-highs in goals (69) and points (107) last season. Despite the injury, Matthews earned the respect of his teammates in his first season as captain.