The Toronto Maple Leafs made a daring move during the 2021 NHL Draft when they selected Matthew Knies, who had shown immense potential but faced questions due to a tough season in his youth. In a recent interview on the FAN Hockey Show, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman discussed the gamble the Maple Leafs took by drafting Knies and how it has paid off.
As Knies continues to impress in the NHL with his size, skill, and scoring ability, the question remains: How good can this youngster really be?
Knies Was a High-End Gamble at the 2021 Draft
Many saw the decision to take Knies as a risk at the time. He had a rough year leading up to the draft, which caused his stock to drop. However, the Maple Leafs saw potential that others might have missed. As Friedman explained, it’s not unusual for young players to have a rough patch at a certain point in their development. But Knies’ combination of size, skill, and scoring was too enticing to pass up.
In the video, Friedman also pointed out that teams are coming to realize the value of taking risks on high-potential players like Knies. “A lot of teams looked at that and thought, ‘We should’ve taken the same gamble that Toronto did,'” he said. It’s a move that paid off for the Maple Leafs. Knies has become a productive part of the team’s first line.
Knies Had an Instant Impact for the Maple Leafs
Knies has been exceptional since making his NHL debut. His 25 goals and 20 assists in 66 games this season are career highs, and he’s on pace for a potential 30-goal season. That, in itself, is an impressive feat in today’s NHL. At just 148 regular-season games into his career, it’s clear that Knies’ future is bright. His recent goal against the New York Rangers, which stood as the game-winner, highlighted his growing ability to produce in high-pressure situations.
Friedman noted that the Maple Leafs were unwilling to part with Knies in a trade for a player like Mikko Rantanen, a move that would have undoubtedly strengthened Toronto’s lineup. However, with Knies’ current career trajectory, who’s to argue that Toronto didn’t make the right choice? His value as a young, skilled player could only be beginning. He’s been productive on a top line with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. His hockey IQ is undeniable. Who’s to say he won’t surpass Rantanen in the long run?
Knies Is a ‘3S’ Player: Size, Skill, and Scoring
Knies has succeeded so quickly because of his perfect fit on the first line with Matthews and Marner. His size, skill, and ability to score make him a rare player in the modern NHL. Perhaps, even better, he complements these two stars perfectly. His physicality and scoring touch add a dimension to the team’s top line that was missing before.
It’s easy to see why the Maple Leafs have been patient with him and continue giving him prime minutes. Knies is a player who can dominate physically and in front of the net, all while maintaining the finesse needed to finish scoring chances. His hand/eye coordination is in the same category as John Tavares. Plus, he’s fearless. His well-rounded game is ideally suited to Toronto’s playstyle.
Knies Has Potential: How Good Can He Become?
With less than 150 regular-season games played, Knies still has room to grow. While it’s hard to say how good he can become, early results are encouraging. His size, skill, and scoring make him a player with an immensely high ceiling. If he continues to develop at this rate, there’s no telling how effective he can be for the franchise in the future.
Friedman acknowledged that, while it’s always tough to predict a player’s future, the signs are all there for Knies to become one of the top players in the NHL. “I think he’s a great player,” Friedman said. “The Leafs took a big gamble, and it looks like it’s paying off.”
Should the Maple Leafs Have Traded Knies for Rantanen?
During the same interview, Friedman discussed the debate surrounding whether the Maple Leafs should have included Knies in a trade for Rantanen. As noted, this move would have immediately bolstered Toronto’s lineup. Ultimately, Friedman believes that, while Rantanen is a top-tier player, the Maple Leafs’ decision to hold on to Knies was the correct one. It’s also true considering how quickly he has developed into a critical part of the team.
Even now, so early into his NHL career, Knies is more than just a promising prospect. He’s a key contributor for the Maple Leafs. His future looks bright and, with it, so does Toronto’s.
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