Chicago asking about Matthew Knies perfectly unlocks the exact defensive return Toronto needs

This past trade deadline, we heard a lot of noise surrounding Matthew Knies including a blockbuster deal that would have seen him go to the Montreal Canadiens though those rumours were quickly debunked.

That doesn't mean the noise is going to stop, and as long as the Maple Leafs are still looking to make changes, it really seems like anything is on the table — including a Knies deal.

It would be certainly tough to see him go, but you have to admit that the interest surrounding him could bring back a huge return that may be able to help turn things around in a flash.

They could have a perfect partner with a keen interest in bringing him aboard, and it's a team who could completely reset their blueline.

It was revealed recently by Frank Seravalli that the Chicago Blackhawks had heavy interest in Knies and were one of the teams poking around at the trade deadline who were inevitably unsuccessful at acquiring him:

While there was no deal, there is a world where Chicago would love to get a hand on Knies. Not only because he is one of the brightest up and coming stars, only 23, and signed long-term — but they seriously need a future piece to give Connor Bedard.

As we've seen with Knies, he's more than capable of hanging with the elite stars and as this year dictates; he's a much better playmaker than we thought. There could be a chance that Bedard and Knies as a duo could eclipse both 30 goals and 85 points each with ease; a terrifying future for the NHL.

Though he isn't going to come cheap for Chicago, and they are going to have to decide whether or not mortgaging their defensive future is worth adding Knies or not because Toronto will be gunning for the blueline.

It's going to be either Wyatt Kaiser or Sam Rinzel at the very least (preferably the latter), and could take a look at Louis Crevier as well. Add Frank Nazar and maybe even Tyler Bertuzzi again and you have yourself a brand new blueline, and two top-six stars — including your John Tavares replacement.

You're losing Knies at 23 years old but if they were to bring in those names you're looking at a brand new youth movement:

Kaiser - 23 years old
Rinzel - 21 years old
Crevier - 24 years old
Nazar - 22 years old
Bertuzzi - 30 years old

Yes, Bertuzzi is the outlier but he's also someone who thrived in Toronto beside Auston Matthews and could be a huge force again. But looking at the other names, you instantly go from the slow, old, plodding lineup to one full of youth and promise.

It's about taking Knies and turning him into four, five, or even six different pieces when it comes to prospects, players and picks. That's how you accelerate a retool, and while losing him sucks; you're getting way better overall.

For the Maple Leafs — a team who is desperate to make a statement and turn their blueline from laughingstock to threat — it may take Matthew Knies to get it done.

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