Matthew Knies Addresses Maple Leafs Trade Speculation

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that Toronto explored interest across much of the roster, including young star forward Matthew Knies.

“I heard some Matthew Knies, and that, to me, is the Maple Leafs seeing if there’s a massive offer they can’t turn down,” Friedman wrote. “That is the only way I see it happening.”

Knies finally addressed the trade speculation surrounding him leading up to the deadline after Monday's practice.

“I didn’t really look into it too much. I feel like, kind of, with this market, everyone’s kind of almost a target,” Knies said. “Yeah, it is what it is. It’s a business. You earn the attention here. But I don’t want to look into it too much, I guess.”

Knies also reflected on the departures of his teammates, all of them leaving within hours of the trade deadline.

“It’s a crappy feeling losing some guys,” Knies said. “You want to keep those guys. A lot of those guys I’ve played with a little bit, so yeah, it sucks to see them go, wish them the best of luck.”

The 23-year-old is in the first season of a six-year, $46.5 million contract and has 16 goals and 35 assists for 51 points in 60 games this season, after missing a few matches with an injury.

“[I’m feeling] pretty good,” Knies said. “Not 100 percent, but definitely pretty good, and still feel like I can contribute and help. I’m confident in my abilities that I’m still eligible to be a dominant player and help out.”

The Maple Leafs play their next game Tuesday at 7:00 p.m. ET when they'll face the Montreal Canadiens at Centre Bell.