Matthew Knies comments on the opportunity to play with Matthews and Marner

Through 11 games so far, Maple Leafs rookie Matthew Knies has two goals and four points. It isn't a bad start, especially considering that his role has been that of a third liner for much of the season, but isn't eye-poping either.

Following the Leafs' 6-4 loss to the Buffalo Sabres Saturday night, Leafs head coach Sheldon Keefe defended Knies when he was asked about secondary scoring. Keefe said that the 21-year-old is still trying to find his way in his first full NHL season. At Sunday's practice, Keefe made some drastic changes to the forward lines, including moving Knies onto the top line next to Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner and explained the decision following practice.

Knies was asked following the Leafs' first full practice since October 30th about the opportunity to play with Matthews and Marner. Naturally, he seemed pretty amped up about the opportunity.

"It's a privilege to play with those two. Obviously, they're incredible players. I'm excited about it. I'm really happy to be there and I'm just going to help them as much as I can."

In moving to the top line, Knies is also hoping that he will be able to find more consistency in his play and be able to use his skillset more effectively.

"I just want to find a little more consistency and playing well and playing to my strengths. I had a few strands there that were good. I strung a few games that were pretty good for me but I have to keep that consistent for every game."

If there is one thing that Matthews and Marner have been this season, it is consistent and now that they are finding their chemistry at five-on-five again, Knies should be able to find more consistency in his game as well. Marner and Matthews have spent the past few games with Calle Jarnkrok on the left wing and while he doesn't provide the offensive upside that Knies does, he was defensively responsible. With Knies now on the left flank, Matthews and Marner may have to take on a little bit more responsibility defensively to help Knies while he adjusts to the tougher competition.

With the Leafs hosting the Tampa Bay Lightning tonight, Knies will be put to the test immediately as the team looks to snap its current 4-game losing streak.

 

Previously on MapleLeafsDaily

Domi comments on being moved to centre

Another Leafs defenseman misses practice on Sunday; Keefe provides an update

Sheldon Keefe makes some major changes to lineup following 6-4 loss to the Sabres

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