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Matthew Knies and Maple Leafs 'Primary Discrepancy' in Contract Talks Revealed

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Antonio Losada | Last updated Jun 21, 2025 9:05 AM ET

As July 1 and the start of free agency approach, the Toronto Maple Leafs and restricted free agent Matthew Knies remain locked in contract talks with no agreement yet in sight.

The winger is coming off a breakout season, scoring a career-high 58 points split into 29 goals and 29 assists, and is looking to cash in.

According to the latest reports, however, the two sides remain apart, primarily on salary expectations.

The Fourth Period reported Friday that while talks have continued, the “primary discrepancy” is financial.

"The primary discrepancy appears to lie in the financial commitment, as the Leafs are believed to be looking in the $4 million to $5 million range, whereas Knies wants to be in the neighborhood of $7 million per season, depending on term."

Leafs continue talks with Knies, Tavares https://t.co/qFayJvkup4
— The Fourth Period (@TFP) June 20, 2025

The difference in salary expectations remains the main obstacle to an extension, with less than two weeks before free agency.

"It's all about perspective. Contract talks between Toronto and the Knies camp are active, but plenty of work remains," David Pagnotta reported. "One side tells me they are not close to a new deal, while the other side disagrees."

"Still feel this falls in the 3-5 year range, whenever it gets done."

Pagnotta said the term of the deal appears to be less of an issue, with both sides focused on a mid-term agreement of three to five years. Toronto, however, has expressed interest in exploring a longer-term option, though Knies prefers the flexibility of a shorter contract.

After hitting the 58-point mark in the regular season, Knies added seven points in 13 postseason games and will only turn 23 at the start of next season, on Oct. 17.

The Maple Leafs drafted Knies with the No. 57 overall pick in the 2021 NHL draft, and he’s quickly become one of Toronto’s most important young players, already slotted in the Maple Leafs' first forward line across Auston Matthews and fellow pending free agent Mitch Marner.

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

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