Matthew Knies Finally Breaks Silence on Leafs Contract Extension
Matthew Knies is a RFA at season's end and the team would love to get a deal done soon, but the power forward isn't focused on anything but helping the Leafs win.
A lot of talk has surrounded whether or not Mitch Marner is going to re-sign or take a big deal elsewhere, or how much John Tavares is going to make as they've dominated the headlines when it comes to contract talks.
But one name who shouldn't be overlooked is Matthew Knies. A restricted free agent at the end of the season, Toronto no doubt wants to lock him up long-term and not risk losing him to a team willing to put in a big offer.
Knies however isn't too concerned with future talks and is solely focused on playing. Recently commenting on his future, the young power forward wasn't shy about his intentions this season:
I just want to help this team win at all costs. That's the value I can bring to the team. There are still improvements I can make, but there's a lot of hockey ahead of me.»
Why Toronto Needs To Re-Sign Matthew Knies ASAP
It's pretty clear that Knies has the potential to be one of the league's elite power forwards and has the chance to cement himself as a Maple Leafs legend given enough time and experience.
Compared to former 50-goal scorer Chris Kreider, Knies uses his size and lightning fast speed to not only crash the net but quickly position himself for tips past the goaltender or a rebound.
Still only 22 years old, Knies is a long way from his prime still and if he continues to grow at the pace he's at, there's no telling how good he truly can be. Despite being in a scoring drought, he's still a threat and it's only a matter of time that he'll bounce back.
With Auston Matthews on the shelf again, it's crucial now more than ever that Knies contributes, and with questions surrounding their other contracts, getting it finished with their young star would make those choices easier.
It's only a matter of time before the Maple Leafs and Matthew Knies come to an agreement. However if they somehow fall out, Toronto is going to lose out again on another elite star with no one to blame but themselves.
