The Toronto Maple Leafs have locked up a key piece of their future, signing forward Matthew Knies to a six-year contract extension. The deal, which carries an average annual value (AAV) of $7.75 million, ensures that Knies will remain with the team through the 2030-31 season.
This move signifies the Maple Leafs' confidence in the 22-year-old, who is coming off a breakout season. In 2024-25, Knies recorded career highs with 29 goals and 29 assists for 58 points in 78 games. He often played on the top line alongside Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, showcasing his ability to contribute offensively.
Knies' previous contract was a three-year entry-level deal worth $925,000 annually, which expired after this past season. As a restricted free agent (RFA), he was eligible to receive offer sheets from other teams. However, the Maple Leafs preempted any potential poaching by securing him with a long-term commitment.
The $7.75 million AAV makes Knies one of the higher-paid players on the Maple Leafs roster. Assuming Mitch Marner departs in free agency as expected, only Auston Matthews ($13.25 million AAV) and William Nylander ($11.5 million AAV) will earn more per year. This reflects the team's belief in Knies' potential to be a core player for years to come.
Selected by the Maple Leafs in the second round (57th overall) of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, Knies has played in 161 games over three seasons, accumulating 44 goals and 50 assists for 94 points. He has also demonstrated his value in the playoffs, with 8 goals and 6 assists for 14 points in 27 games. Knies played a role in both of Toronto's series wins during the salary cap era, against Tampa Bay in 2023 and Ottawa in 2025.
The signing of Knies follows the re-signing of John Tavares, representing a significant investment in the team's core. While these re-signings come at a cost, the Maple Leafs still have cap space to make further moves, particularly if they are unable to retain Marner.
Securing Knies's services long-term addresses the need for change within the team, signaling a commitment to building around a promising young talent. The contract provides Knies with stability and the Maple Leafs with cost certainty for the foreseeable future. This extension positions Knies to play a vital role for the Maple Leafs as they aim for greater success in the coming years.
