Matthew Knies

“It starts with my skating,” Knies said. “I can be a better skater. The NHL is super-fast. Same with shooting and stride. Shooting underneath my feet in odd areas was a huge thing that they harped on me. There are quite a few elements that I could work on.” Knies will get a chance to further his development while playing for the University of Minnesota in 2022-23. The Maple Leafs took him with the 57th overall pick in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. Although he's not ready to assume this role yet, he has the potential to become a top-six power forward in the NHL.

“Hopefully I can join them at the end of the season,” Knies said. "Once I’ve matured myself as a player, I think that's when I can make the step and kind of give the Leafs a boost and try to make them a better team." Knies has decided to return to the University of Minnesota for his sophomore season. He is currently at Toronto's development camp and then he will represent the United States at the World Junior Championship in August. 

Knies had been talking to the Leafs recently about turning pro, but ultimately he decided to return to the college ranks to complete some unfinished business. The 19-year-old forward posted 15 goals and 33 points in 33 games this past season. Knies, who was selected 57th overall by Toronto in the 2021 NHL Draft, also represented the United States at the World Juniors and the Winter Olympics this year.