The Toronto Maple Leafs have officially locked up a pivotal piece of their future by inking winger Matthew Knies to a six-year contract extension worth \$46.5 million, carrying an average annual value of \$7.75 million.
The move, announced on Sunday, June 29, 2025, ensures that Knies—just 22 years old—will remain with Toronto through the 2030–31 season, bypassing any restricted free agent uncertainties.
Why This Extension Matters
1. Rising Star Secured
Knies exploded onto the NHL scene this past season, registering career-high numbers with 29 goals and 58 points in 78 games. He further added five goals and seven points in 13 playoff games. asserting himself as a clutch performer.
2. Cap-Savvy Move
Previously earning \$925,000 under his entry-level contract, Knies’ AAV jumps to \$7.75 million—a significant raise. Yet, in the context of Toronto’s salary cap situation, it’s a strategic investment in a young star entering his prime.
3. Avoiding RFA Risk
As a restricted free agent, Knies was eligible for offer sheets that could have triggered bidding wars. By securing a long-term deal preemptively, the Leafs have circumvented this possibility.
4. Strengthening Core Amid Transitions
With stars like Mitch Marner approaching free agency and major decisions looming, extending Knies signals the franchise’s intent to retain a young core. His power-forward profile—physical, gritty, and increasingly productive—fits the blueprint for sustained contention.
Cap Negotiation Tension
Rumors had surfaced that negotiations were tense, with Knies pushing for a higher salary than the Leafs initially offered. Toronto’s tight cap space made bridging that gap challenging—but ultimately, the sides aligned near the \$7.75 million mark . Industry insiders like Jason Bukala even speculated numbers could climb to \$9 million AAV, emphasizing how highly Knies is regarded league-wide.
🔭 What Lies Ahead
Production Expectations: The Leafs are clearly betting on further growth from Knies. He already chipped in consistently across goals and physical play, leading the team in hits and mastery of special teams.
Team Dynamics: With John Tavares recently extended for four years at \$4.38 million AAV, adding Knies solidifies Toronto’s core ahead of potential hi-res decisions in the summer.
Cap Management: Toronto still has roughly \$13.5 million in cap space, positioning them to make more roster moves—even as significant decisions await on Marner, Max Pacioretty, and others.
🏒 Final Take
This extension is a bold statement: the Leafs have not only locked down a key contributor but also affirmed their commitment to building around youthful energy and grit.
Knies is expected to evolve into a top-six fixture, complementing established stars like Matthews and Marner, and bolstering Toronto’s playoff hopes in the years ahead.