Matthew Knies has quickly become a fan favourite in Toronto, since debuting with the team in the 2022-23 season. Now, Matthew Knies has completed his entry-level deal with the Maple Leafs, and he is looking for a new contract as a restricted free agent.

In the most recent 2024-25 season, Matthew Knies had his best year of his young career. Knies competed in 78 regular season games for the Maple Leafs, scoring 29 goals, adding 29 assists, for a total of 58 points in only his second full season as a Maple Leaf. That’s a big jump from his 35 points in his first full season in 2023-24.

A big part of why Knies is loved among Leafs Nation, is the style in which he plays. Knies’ style of play reminds many Leafs fans of how Zach Hyman played with Toronto, where he was a physical presence, not afraid of getting into the dirty areas and playing a hard-nosed game.

Knies has stated previously that Toronto is where he wants to be long term. If that is the case, there is no reason for both sides to not come to an agreement before the July 1st free agency opening.

There’s two roads that these parties could take. One being a long term extension, which both sides would likely prefer, or a bridge deal with less years. Having Knies locked down for 6+ years would be a sign of relief for everyone, especially Leafs Nation. With Knies’ expression to stay long term in Toronto, it would make sense for everyone if they were able to sign him to the maximum amount of years.

Now, what could the contract look like?

Reports circulating mention that a Knies contract could be anywhere from 5-8 years, with an AAV of $6M-$8M, depending on the years. If I was Toronto, I would take the bet on Knies and sign him to as many years as you can. Knies has shown so much improvement since his first game with the Maple Leafs, that giving him anywhere around $8M can turn into a bargain real quick.

With John Tavares recently signing for less than anyone had expected, you have the extra space to give Knies the extra money to secure him long term. It’s believed that Toronto and Knies’ camp would both be happy with an 8-year deal, but many times players in Knies’ shoes take a 5-year deal to bet on themselves when they’re in the middle of their prime.

With free agency only days away, the Leafs could have a stack of offer sheets in front of them for Knies’ services. Unless the offer is obnoxiously too much, the Leafs should sign Knies to any of those offer sheets, as you can’t lose a player like Knies when you’re in the middle of the teams championship window. Should Knies sign soon, Leafs Nation will be able to breathe a little easier knowing their young star is locked in for the foreseeable future.

Official Contract Prediction: 5-years, $7.2M AAV