Leafs Reporter Shares Concerning Update Regarding Maple Leafs and Matthew Knies

An internal deadline of June 30th has been set for Matthew Knies, as thisnis when the Leafs would like to have Knies put pen to paper on an extension to avoid any threat of an offer-sheet.

There are less than 2 weeks left for that deadline to be met, but after tremendous growth this past season that saw Knies tally 29 goals and 58 points, and following reports of an exponentially growing salary cap, negotiations are taking a lot longer than either side expected.

Both sides are committed to getting a deal done, but the biggest issue in negotiations likely isn't the dollar amount, but rather the term.

Sportsnet's Nick Kypreos has revealed that the Leafs are attempting to be tougher in negotiations to avoid another Mitch Marner situation, which means they are likely pushing for a longer deal while Knies would probably prefer a bridge deal of some sort to maximize his earnings.

On Thursday evening, 'Leafs Morning Take' host Nick Alberga took to 'X' and shared that the Leafs and their former second-round pick are far apart in negotiations, but are optimistic something will be done in the next couple of weeks.

As long as the Leafs don't hand Knies a five-year deal, Leafs Nation will likely be fine with whatever contract he is given. Anything under five years means that Knies will be an RFA when it expires and at least anything over six years buys the Leafs a couple of UFA years, which is where avoiding a Mitch Marner situation comes into play.

As the NHL Entry Draft and free agency creep closer, this is a negotiation all teams will be watching and getting their offers ready should Knies and the Leafs fail to reach an agreement by July 1st.