NHL Insider Shares Surprising Update on Maple Leafs' Matthew Knies' Contract Extension Talks

With Matthew Knies being a restricted free agent at the end of this season, the Maple Leafs need to figure out how best to navigate his future without distracting him from this season. Per David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period however, both parties are currently in talks about where to progress.

After being drafted 57th overall in 2021, Knies is on the cusp of becoming the league's next elite power forward. His blend of speed, size, and offensive potential has led the young player to great success so far.

It's that potential that leads Pagnotta to believe that Toronto is going to lock him up long-term. However, Knies' camp prefers a bridge deal to maximize his value come free agency.

After a great year in 2023-24 where he scored 15 goals and 20 assists, he is on pace to smash that goal scoring total this year, already reaching 10 goals so far only 22 games into the season.

Only 22, Knies has already proven he can be impactful at the NHL level, playing alongside superstars Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. He has missed two games this season due to an upper-body injury, but beyond that he's been even better than last year.

Toronto isn't the only one who has noticed how well Knies has played over the last two seasons, as Team USA GM Bill Guerin took note of the talent the forward possesses and mentioned (albeit indirectly) that he could be in line for a 4 Nations Face-Off roster spot.

If the team can continue their winning ways and have Knies at the forefront of their success, the Maple Leafs will have no choice but to open their checkbook and ask Knies what he wants to make for the next eight years.