The Daily: Auston Matthews Re-Ups in Toronto

One of the biggest anticipated free agents is off the market in a big way. Auston Matthews signed a four-year deal worth $13.25M against the cap, keeping him in in Toronto. The pursuit–a Stanley Cup but also a chance for him to finish what he started.

I feel fortunate to continue this journey as a Maple Leaf in front of the best fans in hockey! I will do everything I can to help get us to the top of the mountain. GLG! #LeafsForever

— Auston Matthews (@AM34) August 23, 2023

It also leads to some fans in other cities maligning the signing be it for paying too much or not getting enough term. The other? Some believe he hasn’t done enough in the postseason to warrant the payout.

That’s bunk and a whole other argument. It wasn’t only Auston Matthews getting paid on Wednesday. The New York Rangers re-upped with their first overall pick from 2020 in what is reportedly a two-year deal. Two first overall picks. Two signings that bring them back to try and win their original team.

Hearing NYR and Alexis Lafreniere closing in on a two-year extension in the $2.3M area.

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) August 23, 2023

Blackhawks In Case You Missed It

• The Blackhawks aren’t going to get a crack at signing Auston Matthews. But don’t be fooled–any fans tsk-tsking the amount aren’t being honest with the true value of Matthews to a team
• The Blackhawks Notebook looks at the good, bad and ugly of what some believe could be a rough season in Chicago

Hockey Now Network

Boston: A source tells Boston Hockey Now that if Elias Lindholm is indeed available in a month, the Boston Bruins may be willing to talk deal

Buffalo: A little more on the Matthews deal from the Buffalo Sabres, a rival that is chasing the Leafs in the Atlantic

Detroit: A Detroit Red Wings prospect to keep an eye on? Albert Johansson, a sneaky-good defenseman who may find his way into one of the defensive pairings.

Montreal: Former Blackhawks forward Kirby Dach is looking to improve his mechanics for the Montreal Canadiens

Pittsburgh: So if Auston Matthews gets what he did, what might Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby fetch and be worth when contract time rolls around for him?