The Toronto Maple Leafs have won three of their last four games, and it has temporarily staved off a complete disaster as the regular season nears its end. Still, the team’s sharp drop after the Olympic break will be studied for months. Part of the discussion will be how the team approached the trade deadline.
They traded players like Bobby McMann and Scott Laughton, but one more name was discussed in rumors. That player was Matthew Knies, who has earned praise for his recent goals, showing sheer use of his size and build. One insider has shared details about how the most storied franchise in the NHL pursued the forward.
Inside the Matthew Knies Trade Rumors Between the Maple Leafs and Canadiens
Knies remained with the Maple Leafs despite heavy speculation leading into the March deadline, and new information has helped clarify how serious those talks really were. Montreal was often linked as a strong option, but the latest update suggests the situation did not move as far as many believed.
Canadiens insider Marco D’Amico addressed the reports directly, writing, “Just an FYI, source close to the Leafs denying those Knies/Habs rumors. Habs and Leafs talked before deadline, but strong denial it got to the end.” D’Amico’s comment makes it clear that while both teams had conversations, they did not reach a stage where a deal was close.
Toronto’s stance on Knies helps explain why no move happened. The organization views him as a key part of its future after signing him to a six-year, $46.5 million contract with a $7.75 million cap hit. That deal runs through the 2030-31 season and shows the team’s long-term plan around his role.
Interest from other teams added to the noise around his name. Reports indicated that at least five teams explored a possible deal, including New Jersey, Anaheim, Chicago, Utah, and Montreal. Some offers were believed to include top prospects and draft picks, but Toronto set a high asking price and did not find a return that matched their expectations.
This situation developed during a challenging season for the Maple Leafs, who sit at 32-30-13 with 77 points and remain outside a secure playoff position. Defensive issues and shaky results are their common theme this year, even though they recently picked up a 5-4 overtime win against Anaheim. Despite those struggles, the team chose not to move a young forward whom they see as part of their future.
Knies’ performance this season has also played a role in that decision. He has recorded 21 goals and 60 points in 72 games while adding a physical edge with 141 hits. That mix of production and presence makes him valuable to the lineup.
The front office has made a big change out of frustration with the team’s performance, as Brad Treliving was dismissed before Monday’s game. Even with that shift, the new boss is likely going to keep Knies at the core of their plans rather than move him for short-term returns.
Looking ahead, his name could come up again in the offseason depending on how the team shapes its roster. For now, the latest update makes it clear that while Toronto and Montreal did talk, the idea of a near-complete deal does not match what sources have indicated.
