Matthew Knies’ Next Contract Could Reach $9 Million Per Year
There’s growing speculation about the next contract for Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies, with some analysts suggesting his annual salary could soar to $9 million.
According to Sportsnet’s Jason Bukala, the potential for an offer sheet from another team might drive up Knies’ price tag significantly.
Speaking on The FAN Hockey Show, Bukala emphasized how unique Knies is as a player, describing him as a “unicorn” who fills a long-standing need for the Leafs.
Given his impact on the team, Bukala believes Toronto must prioritize signing Knies before making other major roster decisions.
Knies, a 22-year-old forward, has been a key player for the Leafs this season, registering 25 goals and 45 points in 65 games.
As a pending restricted free agent (RFA), the Leafs will need to decide whether to sign him to a short- or long-term contract.
A long-term deal would provide cost certainty for the team, especially as the salary cap continues to rise.
Bukala suggested that if he were managing Toronto, he would aim to lock in Knies at $8 million annually to secure stability.
One of the biggest concerns for the Leafs is the possibility of an offer sheet from a rival team.
While some fans might find the idea of Knies receiving a $9 million contract excessive, Bukala pointed out that an aggressive offer sheet could put the Leafs in a difficult position.
Offer sheets are designed to pressure teams into either matching a high contract or losing a valuable player due to salary cap constraints.
If another team were to propose a $7 million deal, Toronto would have no hesitation in matching it. However, a $9 million offer could force the Leafs into a tough financial decision.
Looking at past examples, teams have sometimes underestimated how other franchises value their young players. For instance, the Edmonton Oilers focused on signing unrestricted free agents like Jeff Skinner and Viktor Arvidsson instead of protecting younger talents such as Dylan Holloway and Philip Broberg. That strategy has been questioned in hindsight, and the Leafs may face a similar dilemma with Knies. Do they risk losing him by prioritizing other moves, or do they ensure he remains a core part of their future?
With the salary cap expected to rise in the coming years, securing Knies on a long-term deal could be the safest option for the Leafs. The team must carefully navigate this situation to avoid the pitfalls that have impacted other franchises. If they believe Knies is a cornerstone player, they may have no choice but to pay a premium price to keep him in Toronto for the long haul.