As the NHL trade deadline inches closer, the Toronto Maple Leafs are shaping up to be a team to watch-though maybe not in the way fans might expect. While rumors will swirl and speculation will fly, don’t count on seeing Auston Matthews, William Nylander, or John Tavares packing their bags anytime soon.
Why? It all comes down to contract structure-specifically, full no-move clauses that give each of these star forwards complete control over their destination. That’s not just a minor detail; it’s a major roadblock for any trade scenario involving these three.
Let’s break it down.
William Nylander’s new deal runs through 2032 and includes a full no-move clause for the entire duration. That’s a long-term commitment from both sides, and it locks Nylander into Toronto unless he decides otherwise.
Auston Matthews isn’t far behind-his current contract carries him through the 2027-28 season, also with full no-move protection. As for John Tavares, his clause remains fully intact through the end of next season.
After that, it shifts into a partial no-move, meaning he’ll still have significant say over where he could be traded.
In short: these guys aren’t going anywhere unless they want to. And right now, there’s no indication that any of them are looking for an exit.
That gives Toronto something most teams envy: stability at the top. With their core locked in, the Leafs don’t have to panic or sell low during a rough patch. They can take a longer view, focusing on how to build around Matthews, Nylander, and Tavares rather than reshuffling the deck entirely.
Now, no-move clauses aren’t ironclad. Players can waive them-just look at Artemi Panarin, who approved a deal to head from the Rangers to the Kings.
But those situations are the exception, not the rule. And when it comes to Toronto’s big three, it’s hard to imagine the front office even wanting to explore those options right now.
The message is clear: the Leafs are all-in on their stars. The next step is figuring out how to support them with the right pieces-on the blue line, in net, and throughout the lineup-to turn this talented core into a true championship threat.
So while Toronto may be active in the trade market, don’t expect any blockbusters involving Matthews, Nylander, or Tavares. The foundation is set. Now it’s about building the house around it.