Matthew Knies' trajectory continues to point skyward, the Toronto Maple Leafs have inked another young prospect, and the Atlantic Division landscape is experiencing a significant reshuffling. Here's a breakdown of the latest news and rumors surrounding the team:
Knies Locks Down Long-Term Deal
Matthew Knies has solidified his place in Toronto for the foreseeable future, signing a six-year, $46.5 million contract extension with the Maple Leafs. The deal carries an average annual value of $7.75 million. At 22 years old, Knies is coming off a breakout season where he tallied 29 goals and 29 assists for 58 points in 78 games. He primarily played on the top line alongside Auston Matthews and, until recently, Mitch Marner. Selected by Toronto in the second round (57th overall) of the 2021 NHL Draft, Knies has accumulated 94 points (44 goals, 50 assists) in 161 regular-season games. He has also contributed 14 points (eight goals, six assists) in 27 playoff games. General Manager Brad Treliving expressed his belief that Knies is "just scratching the surface" of his potential. Knies himself conveyed his desire for a long-term commitment to the team.
Holinka Joins the Organization
The Maple Leafs have signed center Miroslav Holinka to a three-year, entry-level contract. Holinka, a fifth-round pick (151st overall) in the 2024 NHL Draft, spent last season with the Edmonton Oil Kings of the Western Hockey League (WHL), where he recorded 45 points in 47 games. The deal carries an average annual value of $918,333 at the NHL level and an annual salary of $85,000 at the AHL level, including signing bonuses. The 19-year-old also represented Czechia at the 2025 World Juniors, earning a bronze medal. Holinka is a 6-foot-2 right-handed center known for his playmaking ability and defensive responsibility. He is expected to add forward depth, likely starting with the Toronto Marlies.
Atlantic Division Shakeup
The Atlantic Division is poised for another competitive season, with several teams making significant moves. The Florida Panthers, after winning back-to-back Stanley Cups, are considered to have a "wide-open" window for continued dominance, with their core players locked in long-term. The Tampa Bay Lightning, despite their aging core, remain a "win-now" team. The Ottawa Senators, who made the playoffs last season, are also expected to be in the mix. The Boston Bruins' moves have been questioned and it is unclear if they will be a contender.
The Maple Leafs, meanwhile, are facing questions after trading Mitch Marner to the Vegas Golden Knights. While the acquisition of Nicolas Roy and Matias Maccelli aims to fill the void, losing a player of Marner's caliber undoubtedly impacts their contention window. The team may explore further trades to bolster their roster, with potential targets including offensive defensemen. Recent rumors have linked the Leafs to players like Nazem Kadri. Internally, players like Bobby McMann will be looked upon to step up and seize larger roles.
