Matthew Knies on his potential NHL debut this season: ''I'm ready to jump''
19-year-old Matthew Knies was a prospect that many Leafs fans may not have been familiar with prior to the Buds drafting him 57th overall in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. However, after what has been a very successful freshman year with the University of Minnesota, Knies has quickly shot up the Leafs' depth chart and looks favourable to earn an NHL audition at the conclusion of his NCAA season.
On Saturday, TSN's Mark Masters had a chance to sit down with Knies for a 1-on-1 chat, where Knies revealed that while his focus is heavily on what lies ahead in the Frozen Four, he feels that he is physically ready to make the jump to the NHL.
Knies revealed to Masters that what he felt has made him a success story this season has been the way that he has used his 6-foot-3, 210-pound frame to his advantage. He has played with increased physicality and has also used his body to protect the puck, which has certainly worked out for him in his freshman year.
It's no secret that Leafs GM Kyle Dubas has saved a contract spot for Knies if he chooses to make an immediate jump to the NHL level. While Knies reveals that he hasn't made a decision on that just yet, he certainly believes he has the tools to be successful at the top level as well.
"My size is obviously there. I think I have the strength. I'm ready to jump. But, I'm not really focused on it. I'm heading to some of the biggest games of my life this upcoming weekend.
I just want to make sure that we get as far as possible.. that I can give my team the best chance to win and then whatever comes forward, I can sit down and talk with my parents and discuss it with people who know me best."
- Matthew Knies on the potential of making the jump to the NHL this season
I just want to make sure that we get as far as possible.. that I can give my team the best chance to win and then whatever comes forward, I can sit down and talk with my parents and discuss it with people who know me best."
- Matthew Knies on the potential of making the jump to the NHL this season
Knies has registered a point per game this season in the NCAA as a 19-year-old, posting 14 goals and 18 assists for a total of 32 points in 32 games.
The NHL is a different beast entirely. While Knies may feel dominant in the NCAA, against players who are similar in size and smaller, the NHL will pose some unique challenges for the Phoenix, AZ native, as the players will be bigger, faster and stronger than the competition he has become accustomed to at the collegiate level.
While I think that Knies is probably better equipped than most 19-year-olds to make an immediate jump, I can certainly see the merit in the Leafs not rushing him and giving him another year to dominate at the NCAA level before bringing him in. That said, if he does get a chance to turn pro, Knies could end up being a real difference-maker for the Leafs.
| POLL | ||
AVRIL 2 | 313 ANSWERS Matthew Knies on his potential NHL debut this season: ''I'm ready to jump'' Will Matthew Knies play in the NHL this season/playoffs? | ||
| No, he's not ready | 48 | 15.3 % |
| He'll be a game-changer in the playoffs | 51 | 16.3 % |
| Rushing him would be a mistake | 80 | 25.6 % |
| At 6'3, 210 lbs, he's ready | 134 | 42.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
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