Toronto Maple Leafs' Matthew Knies, wearing jersey number 23, celebrated with his teammates on the bench after scoring a goal during the third period of their NHL game against the Tampa Bay Lightning. The match took place in Toronto on Monday, January 20, 2025. Cole Burston captured the photo for The Canadian Press.
Matthew Knies has swiftly become a crucial player for the Toronto Maple Leafs, showcasing remarkable growth since his breakout performance in last year’s playoffs. The 22-year-old forward gained attention during a heated moment in Game 5 against the Boston Bruins, where he confidently stood up for his team and scored a crucial overtime goal to extend the series. Although Toronto was eventually eliminated, Knies emerged as a promising talent amidst the disappointment.
Fast forward to this season, Knies continues to prove his worth. On Monday, he delivered a stellar performance with two goals and an assist in the Maple Leafs’ 5-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning. The towering 6-foot-3 winger has now tallied 18 goals and 13 assists, amassing 31 points while complementing superstars Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner on the top line.
Knies’ Style and Growth
Head coach Craig Berube highlighted Knies’ improved physicality and knack for forechecking. “He knows how to get loose pucks and head straight to the net,” Berube said. “He’s aware of how to support Auston and Mitch without overshadowing their skills.”
Matthews echoed similar sentiments, praising Knies’ confidence and adaptability. “He’s got tremendous skills and has grown so much,” Matthews shared. “Knies has been a force for us all season.”
Knies credits Berube’s straightforward coaching style for shaping his game. “Playing simple and fast suits me,” said Knies, who was drafted 57th overall in 2021. The Arizona native has accumulated 67 points in 129 regular-season games and added valuable playoff experience with seven points in 14 postseason appearances.
Knies’ Journey and Potential
Transitioning from college hockey at the University of Minnesota to the NHL came with its challenges, but Knies embraced them. “Facing bigger, stronger players was a learning curve,” he admitted. However, practicing alongside seasoned Maple Leafs players accelerated his development.
His teammates have also noticed his progress. “He’s taking huge strides and becoming a dynamic player,” William Nylander remarked, while goaltender Joseph Woll called him “tough to stop.”
Knies nearly secured his second career hat trick earlier this month and continues to refine his power-forward style. “He’s driving our game forward,” Berube stated.
Behind the Scenes: Goalie and Discipline Updates
Meanwhile, Joseph Woll has been managing an increased workload this season, starting his 25th game—a personal best. Despite a packed schedule, Woll is balancing the demands with support from the team’s sports science staff.
On the other hand, Lightning head coach Jon Cooper addressed accountability after benching Brayden Point for missing a meeting. “Superstars need to be held accountable to set the tone for the team,” Cooper explained. “It’s about keeping the group in the best position to succeed, physically and mentally.”
