The Maple Leafs are taking no chances with Matthew Knies, and although he showed up to practice, he was seen in a no-contact jersey.
When Matthew Knies was hit by Vegas Golden Knights player Zach Whitecloud, it was a brutal-looking incident that left Knies shaken and eventually led to his removal from the game.
Whitecloud received no punishment in the game or afterward as the Maple Leafs and its fans were outraged about the non-call. Knies was placed on the IR shortly after as he recovered from a potential concussion.
That potential may have reached a little higher today, as Toronto had their power forward back on the ice, but with a no-touch policy in place.
Knies returned to Leafs practice on Tuesday however he was wearing a no-contact jersey, and while it's great to see him back it's concerning that he is nowhere near full health.
What Does This Mean For Toronto?
It means that Toronto will more than likely be without Knies for not only Wednesday's game against the Florida Panthers but the Tampa Bay game on Saturday as well.
Toronto doesn't play their next game after that stint until Dec. 2, which gives Knies a few more days to heal up and get back to form.
Toronto would very much like their blossoming power forward to return, as he was on pace to smash last season's goal total and already had 8 goals in 20 games and giving Toronto every reason to lock him up long-term.
It also means Toronto will have to contend against their division rivals as both teams battle it out for Atlantic supremacy. Florida is second behind Toronto and is as hungry as ever for their second straight Stanley Cup appearance.
Toronto also saw the highly anticipated return of Auston Matthews to practice on Tuesday as well though there is a lot of doubt that he will return for Wednesday's game and Saturday seems more likely.
Toronto Maple Leafs Matthew Knies has played 20 games in the 2024-2025 NHL season, recording 8 goals and 4 assists for a total of 12 points.
FAQ: Matthew Knies Returns To Practice
Q1: Why is Matthew Knies practicing but not playing?
A1: Matthew Knies isn't playing the Leafs' next games because he is still on the IR and would not be ready in time; he was also seen wearing a non-contact jersey and it's an indicator he is not cleared yet for anything remotely game related.
Q2: How has Matthew Knies' injury affected Toronto?
A2: Matthew Knies' absence has affected Toronto in the sense that they lost one of their top performers and brightest young stars. However, even without Knies the team managed a win, and will continue to do so coming into their next two against Florida and Tampa Bay.
In closing, it's great to see Matthew Knies back on the ice again, but it's concerning he isn't ready for any game action yet. All we can hope is Knies gets healthy soon and is back helping Toronto once again.
