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Maple Leafs' Brad Treliving Reveals His Matthew Knies Desire Without Hesitation

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated May 30, 2025 6:51 AM ET

As the Toronto Maple Leafs head into a summer of change, the uncertainty surrounding several core veterans has left the front office with difficult choices.

Mitch Marner and John Tavares are approaching unrestricted free agency, and major questions remain about how the roster will be reshaped under new head coach Craig Berube.

General manager Brad Treliving acknowledged that changes are needed after another second-round exit during a 40-minute end-of-season media availability on Thursday.

Treliving described the need to alter the team’s "DNA" and is weighing multiple possibilities. Amid the uncertainty, however, one piece appears untouchable and locked into the Maple Leafs' future: Matthew Knies.

LIVE | Brad Treliving Press Conference | May 29, 2025 https://t.co/dgsNjVsgJz
— Toronto Maple Leafs (@MapleLeafs) May 29, 2025

"I’d like to get (a contract extension) done as soon as possible," Treliving said of Knies’ next contract. "We’re seeing him evolve in front of our eyes.

"It’s a big step for a young player to become really important."

Knies is coming off a breakout season in which he scored 58 points in 78 games. His entry-level contract will expire on July 1, making him a restricted free agent and allowing other teams to submit offer sheets to sign him.

Treliving emphasized Knies’ development during the season and playoffs, noting his toughness and reliability in big moments.

"Matthew had an injury in Game 6. Muscled through it," Treliving said. "He was really good. He was an impactful player. I think of the breakaway in Game 4. Matthew is an important part of the future moving forward."

Treliving reiterated his confidence in getting a deal done and dismissed any fear of offer sheets.

"Usually, term and money are the only two issues that come into play on contract negotiations," Treliving said. "But we’re not going to be rigid. He became a really important player."

When asked about whether or not he'd entertain offer sheets from other teams, Knies made his thoughts crystal clear.

"I want to be here," Knies said. "I want to play here. That’s all that really matters to me."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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