In keeping with a number of studies, the Toronto Maple Leafs are at present considering whether or not to supply younger ahead Matthew Knies a long-term contract extension. Knies, 21, is coming into the ultimate 12 months of his entry-level contract, and whereas there have been some preliminary discussions about his future, there isn’t any rush to lock him in.
Nonetheless, insiders like Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet have hinted that Knies could possibly be on the cusp of changing into a significant piece of the workforce’s future. The crew at TSN’s OverDrive additionally mentioned the concept of locking Knies in now, weighing the dangers versus the rewards of doing so.
A Lengthy-Time period Knies Deal Now Isn’t A Slam Dunk Resolution
This Knies scenario presents the Maple Leafs with an fascinating dilemma. Extending him now might probably safe a high-value, team-friendly, long-term contract if his improvement continues to development upwards. Nevertheless, committing too early carries inherent dangers, on condition that he has but to show himself over a full NHL season.
The Maple Leafs see him as a future chief, primarily based on the very fact he was given an alternate captain’s “A” in a current recreation. One might argue that was as a result of the workforce had a restricted variety of NHL regulars within the lineup, however others will counsel he’s already proven robust management qualities. Friedman famous that it’s a transparent signal of the workforce’s perception in Knies, suggesting that they see him as a cornerstone participant and a long-term asset. Friedman argued that the perfect technique is to signal them to a longer-term deal early as a result of costs on good gamers by no means go down.
However, what’s Knies? He’s an excellent participant, however is he explode-for-offense good?
The query for the Leafs is whether or not Knies is able to take that subsequent step and change into a constant presence alongside the workforce’s prime stars like Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner. Knies brings dimension, energy, and physicality, however he’s by no means actually been an offensive standout. He’s not been a prolific scorer at any stage, and if the Leafs are going to get caught paying full worth or overpaying for somebody, it is going to be due to factors.
The Maple Leafs May Wait Out the 2024-25 Season
The Leafs may wish to wait and see how Knies performs all through the 2024-25 season. If he finally ends up taking part in often with Matthews and Marner, his numbers might skyrocket, and his worth would subsequently enhance. However, the probabilities of that may be slimmer than him merely having an excellent season and coming in at a quantity that is sensible for either side. Ready for him to “show it” might imply paying slightly extra later, however it additionally avoids the danger of overpaying for a participant who may not change into an offensive powerhouse.
The Leafs have had combined success with gamers who took time to develop chemistry with their stars. A first-rate instance is Zach Hyman, who didn’t rating lots in Toronto however grew to become a 50-plus purpose scorer after shifting to the Edmonton Oilers and lining up with Connor McDavid. Conversely, Michael Bunting put up stable numbers in Toronto however has since moved on and never executed a lot in Carolina or Pittsburgh. Is Knies extra more likely to change into Hyman or Bunting?
It’s essential to notice that the Leafs nonetheless maintain some leverage in all of this. Ideally, you wish to signal star gamers early and get them locked in at a reduction. However, if they will’t attain a deal earlier than Knies’ entry-level contract expires, they’ve the choice of taking him to arbitration, giving them some management over how excessive his wage escalates. Which means that Toronto can afford to be affected person, with out getting killed financially if Knies finds an offensive stage he’s but to succeed in in his hockey profession.
It is sensible the Maple Leafs are having this dialog. It might additionally make sense to attend, probably revisiting issues if Knies will get off to a powerful begin and maintains it.
