Leaf prospect announced as the frontrunner for major award

A second round pick in the 2021 draft, Matthew Knies has quickly become one of the top prospects across the NHL, with some calling him the best power forward prospect not currently playing in the NHL. Last season, in his first year at the University of Minnesota, Knies had 33 points in 33 games for the Golden Gophers. At the end of his season, the Leafs were hopeful that he would join the team for the last few weeks of the season and playoffs. Unfortunately for the Leafs, Knies decided a second season in Minnesota was better for him and his development.

It would appear that he was right in his decision as he has already surpassed his goal total from last season, having scored 17 goals this year. He currently has 31 points in 30 games and has continuously scored highlight reel goals, with his last couple being shorthanded. The 6'3, 210-pound forward has a unique combination of size and skill and relayed to Mark Masters a couple of weeks ago that he has spent many hours improving his shot and foot speed. He also said to Masters that he wants to be a part of the Leafs organization and that he believes he is ready to make the leap to the NHL. Pointing out the obvious here, but all signs point to him joining the Leafs once his season at Minnesota ends, which could be as late as April 8th depending how far he and the Gophers go in the Frozen Four tournament.

A few months ago, Knies was named a Hobey Baker finalist and according to the latest poll, he leads all nominees with 6.61% of votes currently, almost a full percentage higher than Wester Michigan University's Jason Polin. While he doesn't have the most points, Knies has developed into one of the premiere two-way forwards in the NCAA and that has likely led to him receiving the most votes so far.

MUST READ

12 hours ago  |  By Dean Chaudhry Ex-Leafs Enforcer Turned Podcaster Shares Strong Opinion on Auston Matthews Situation

17 hours ago  |  By Mike Armenti Ex-NHLer Accuses Auston Matthews and the Maple Leafs of Being Dishonest with the Public

Dec 24  |  By Dean Chaudhry Maple Leafs, Auston Matthews Believed to Have Reached an Understanding Surrounding His Health

Dec 24  |  By Mike Armenti Spittin' Chiclets Co-Host Has a Special Message for Maple Leafs Captain Auston Matthews

Dec 24  |  By Ryan Smitheram Maple Leafs' Update on Chris Tanev Not Enough to Satiate Fans

Dec 24  |  By Ryan Smitheram Insider Reveals Power Struggle Between Auston Matthews and the Maple Leafs

Dec 24  |  By Dean Chaudhry Legendary Maple Leafs broadcaster Joe Bowen Shares Special Moment with His Son on Live Telecast

Dec 24  |  By Nick Matthews TSN Analyst Preps Maple Leafs Fans on Potential Recovery Plan for Auston Matthews

MORE STORIES