The Toronto Maple Leafs are nearing a six-year contract extension with restricted free agent Matthew Knies, reportedly valued at $46.5 million, according to TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston. This agreement would see the young forward earning an average annual salary of $7.75 million.
At just 22 years old, Knies has shown impressive growth, culminating in a standout season during 2024-25, where he netted 29 goals and contributed a total of 58 points across 78 games. His playoff performance was notable as well, with five goals and seven points in 13 games, before the Maple Leafs faced defeat against the Florida Panthers in the second round.
Standing at 6-foot-3, Knies is coming off a three-year entry-level contract that was modest at a cap hit of $925,000. The Maple Leafs selected him 57th overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, and he has since recorded a total of 44 goals and 84 points in 161 career appearances.
Additionally, Knies represented the United States in the 2022 Winter Olympics in China, where he helped the team secure a fifth-place finish. His trajectory suggests he may play a pivotal role in the Maple Leafs’ quest for a championship as they build around their young talent.
This contract extension reflects the franchise’s confidence in Knies and underscores the importance of retaining key players as they look to improve in future seasons. The Maple Leafs are positioning themselves well, aiming to cultivate a strong competitive edge while developing their promising roster.