Chris Johnston recently dropped a bombshell on TSN 1050 Radio. Imagine a scenario where an NHL executive values a 24-year-old power forward over a generational, goal-scoring superstar. According to Johnston, there is at least one NHL team willing to give up a larger trade package for Matthew Knies than for Auston Matthews. Yes, you read that correctly.
As the Toronto Maple Leafs enter a franchise-altering offseason, the trade rumors surrounding Knies have reached a fever pitch. Former GM Brad Treliving was reportedly listening to offers before the March deadline, largely because Knies lacks no-trade protection, but all eyes are now on new Maple Leafs GM John Chayka. Will Chayka capitalize on this sky-high market value to acquire a top-tier defenseman, or will he double down on his young power forward?
The decision heavily hinges on the Leafs holding the coveted first-overall pick. With phenom Gavin McKenna waiting in the wings, the puzzle pieces Chayka moves right now will dictate the future of this roster.
Evaluating the Matthew Knies Trade Market Value
If you are a student of the modern NHL, you know exactly why Matthew Knies’ name is generating so much heat. Big, fast, 24-year-old power forwards who can legitimately play in your top six and forecheck with ferocity are unicorns in today’s game. When you factor in his incredibly team-friendly lack of no-trade protection, it makes perfect sense why rival general managers are salivating.
However, John Chayka is a highly analytical hockey mind. Reports suggest Chayka thinks very highly of Knies and doesn’t seem keen to move him just for the sake of making a splash. If you trade a player with Knies’ physical profile, you inevitably spend the next half-decade searching for a player exactly like him to protect your star players in the playoffs.
How Gavin McKenna Impacts the Leafs’ Top Six Forward Group
This brings us to the draft. Many believe the Toronto Maple Leafs will be selecting Gavin McKenna with the first overall pick. My take as an NHL analyst? If the Toronto Maple Leafs intend to be true Stanley Cup contenders next season, trading Knies is the wrong move.
Instead, they should keep Knies, draft McKenna, and instantly field one of the most dynamic forward groups in recent hockey history. Imagine rolling out a solid top-six forward group featuring Auston Matthews, Matthew Knies, William Nylander, Easton Cowan, John Tavares, and Gavin McKenna. You have a perfect blend of veteran leadership, generational goal-scoring, youthful speed, and the heavy, physical presence that Knies provides along the boards. Moving him for a defenseman might plug one hole, but it rips a massive void in the identity of their forward corps.
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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