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A Frustrated Matthew Knies Blasts Leafs' Performance: 'That's unacceptable by us'
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies shared his thoughts on the team's second consecutive loss to the Detroit Red Wings and delivered a very specific message: It's not good enough.
The Leafs put forth a much better effort on Monday at Scotiabank Arena than they did two nights prior in Detroit. Unfortunately, after falling 6-3 to the Red Wings on Saturday, the Leafs allowed a late goal in a 2-2 game, losing 3-2 in regulation to the Wings once again on Monday, despite outshooting them 40-15 in the game.
Matthew Knies Not Happy With Leafs' Effort
(Photo credit: Gerry Angus-Imagn Images)
Matthew Knies was among the Maple Leafs who spoke with the media following the loss, and he made it very clear that his team did not play a full 60 minutes -- something he emphasized that they need to clean up.
"I still think we need to play a full 60 minutes. You know, we can't let it break down, especially in the last few minutes of a period of a game. That's unacceptable by us, and I think we just need to play simpler at those times of the game and manage the clock a little bit better.
Knies' comments about his team allowing a late, back-breaking goal are valid, and his frustration is warranted, given how tilted the ice was in the Leafs' favour all night.
The Leafs dictated the pace of play throughout the game and didn't take their foot off the gas for much of the contest. Unfortunately for the team, Red Wings goalie Cam Talbot was up to the task, making 38 saves on the evening. Knies gave him his roses following the game, giving credit where credit was due for a strong performance.
"Yeah, he played great. A lot of props to him, he held them in it. I think we had some really good opportunities, and he closed the door on a lot of us. Yeah, he held their team together and I think we just got to be better on making some better puck plays in front of the net and I think we're bound to score more goals."
Knies' assessment checks out, as the Leafs only created 5 rebounds all night, despite firing 40 shots on net. Three of them came off the stick of Auston Matthews.
Knies Pleased With Easton Cowan in Debut
(Photo credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images)
Knies also touched on new linemate Easton Cowan, giving the rookie forward credit for how well he played in his NHL debut, despite the obvious nerves, anticipation and excitement that he was feeling.
"I think he did phenomenal with his puck play. That pass to [Matthews] for that breakaway, that's pretty elite, and I think he did a tremendous job in every zone. I think he played simple and made some great plays and he was useful for us today."
Cowan's impact was noticeable on the night, and Knies was certainly paying attention. The trio of Knies, Matthews and Cowan boasted tremendous Corsi and Fenwick numbers and outshot the competition 10-0 while on the ice together, according to Natural Stat Trick.
The Leafs don't have long to chew on this loss, as they're right back in action on Tuesday evening against the Nashville Predators. This will also give them an opportunity to get a better look at Filip Forsberg, whom they've been linked to in a juicy trade rumour already this year.
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OCTOBRE 14 | 681 ANSWERS A Frustrated Matthew Knies Blasts Leafs' Performance: 'That's unacceptable by us' Do you think Matthew Knies scores 30 goals this season? | ||
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