ECHL referee Logan Gruhl explains how he improves his game and officiating as he works up the ranks. Auston Matthews [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjAwMjkwMzU3MzIwMDk4OTI0/usatsi_19845923_168400847_lowres.jpg] Auston Matthews The Toronto Maple Leafs have locked in their franchise face. After a summer of uncertainty, the Mape Leafs and superstar Auston Matthews have agreed to terms on a long-term contract extension, officially coming in at four years with an average annual value of $13.25 million. The deal ties Matthews to Toronto through the 2027-28 season and ensures the Maple Leafs will have their best player under contract through the remainder of the club's contention window. And now, Leafs fans can rest easy. What is there to say about Matthews that hasn't already been said? The 26-year-old is arguably the league's best pure goal-scorer and a bona fide elite superstar talent, having won two Rocket Richard trophies, one Hart Trophy, one Ted Lindsay Award, and the Calder Trophy throughout his seven-year career thus far. Not to mention, Matthews has developed into quite an effective defensive forward over the past few years to complement his offensive talents, refining his game to become a complete player at both ends of the ice. To have Matthews signed for the remainder of his 20s at a price tag that will end up being roughly 15 percent of the salary cap, if it rises as expected, is quite a win for the Maple Leafs' front office. While the term could have been longer, the Maple Leafs are focused on winning a Stanley Cup in the immediate future, and having Matthews in the fold at just $1.6 million more annually than he was making on his previous deal is a positive development no matter how you slice it. Now, Leafs fans can move on to worrying about a possible contract extension for William Nylander.
