Is Matthew Knies actually on the move? According to a recent report by NHL insider Chris Johnston on TSN, the Toronto Maple Leafs are actively gauging the trade market for the 23-year-old power forward. While fans might be shocked to hear his name in the rumor mill, Toronto’s front office is reportedly open to the possibility that Knies could fetch a massive return, one that helps them refresh and retool their roster for the future.
Coming off a career-high 66-point campaign in the 2025-26 season, Knies possesses a rare combination of size, scoring touch, and youth. Crucially, his current contract lacks any no-trade protection, giving the Maple Leafs complete control over a potential blockbuster deal. So, what teams have shown interest in Matthew Knies, and who has the assets to pull off a trade of this magnitude?
Let’s break down the three leading suitors who are aggressively monitoring the situation.
What Teams Have Shown Interest in Matthew Knies?
Montreal Canadiens
The Canadiens and Maple Leafs nearly finalized a blockbuster trade for Knies at the 2026 NHL trade deadline, but the deal fell apart due to a late submission to the league office.
The Fit: Montreal took a massive step forward this past season, securing 106 points and reaching the Eastern Conference Final. Their core of Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, and Lane Hutson is entering its competitive window. However, their playoff series against the Carolina Hurricanes proved they need a physically imposing forward who can score in order to truly contend. Knies brings the exact physical style and offensive production that Montreal needs to solidify their top-six.
Buffalo Sabres
Buffalo was actively trying to acquire Knies at the trade deadline and had reportedly assembled a multi-piece offer similar to the package they used to pursue Robert Thomas.
The Fit: The Sabres are dealing with uncertainty surrounding Alex Tuch, whose contract status remains unresolved as he heads toward free agency. Knies fits the profile perfectly as a top-six winger who can play alongside Tage Thompson and provide reliable physical and offensive production. Furthermore, Buffalo has defensive assets, like Bowen Byram, that align with Toronto’s reported asking price of a top-pairing defenseman.
Chicago Blackhawks
The Blackhawks have emerged as a wildcard destination for Knies as they look to build a competitive forward group for the future.
The Fit: Chicago desperately needs a legitimate power forward to grow alongside their franchise centerpiece, Connor Bedard. While they have players like Tyler Bertuzzi and Frank Nazar, Knies fits the profile of the long-term co-star Bedard needs to create space and finish plays. The Blackhawks also hold the No. 4 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, giving them the premium trade capital required to catch Toronto’s attention.
My Take on the Matthew Knies Trade Rumors
Maple Leafs General Manager John Chayka seems to be keeping an open mind on the possibility of moving Knies. However, he sounds like he’s not actively shopping him and could set a price that most teams would find too high. When you have a 23-year-old power forward with team control coming off a 66-point year, you don’t trade him just to make a splash. You wait for an absolute overpay.
Matthew Knies Career NHL Stats
| Type | GP | G | A | P | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Season | 240 | 67 | 93 | 160 | -13 |
| Playoffs | 27 | 8 | 6 | 14 | -2 |
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