The Toronto Maple Leafs should seize the moment and lock up Matthew Knies with a long-term contract before his asking price skyrockets.
The Los Angeles Kings recently signed forward Quinton Byfield to a five-year, $31.25 million extension, with a cap hit of $6.25 million per season. One can argue the Leafs would be wise to secure a deal with Knies now to avoid him commanding a similar or higher salary.
Quinton Byfield is on the path to stardom. A $6.25M deal for the next five years has potential to be ludicrously good value.
Both Knies and Byfield are 22 years of age, but Byfield was drafted a year earlier. The Kings' deal with Byfield reflects his early UFA years and potential as a former second overall pick.
The Leafs should learn from the Kings who may have notched a bargain. The Buds need to avoid paying big, especially with the core occupying a significant portion of the salary cap and the team's Stanley Cup window wide open.
Throwback to Matthew Knies' first career NHL goal, which happened in Round 2 of the Stanley Cup playoffs. He scored it without even looking at the net, behind his back 🤯
Huge potential breakout year for Knies upcoming, as he could very well see consistent 1st line minutes.
It's also possible the Leafs could give a bridge deal, offeirng him a short term deal which could see him hit the market for the big payday in his prime.
Knies is entering the final year of his entry-level contract, and if Toronto doesn't want to risk him walking, sign him now. Knies played a top-nine role last season, with a career-high 35 points and has a prime opportunity to shine alongside stars like Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, William Nylander, and John Tavares.
The Maple Leafs should sign Matthew Knies to an 8 year contract as soon as possible. Let's start locking in the young guys before they blow up and demand internet money.
Locking up Knies now ensures stability and keeps the team competitive without breaking the bank.