Radio hosts believe the Leafs should demote Matthew Knies and try something wild for the top line
Last week on Sportsnet TheFan590's "Real Kyper and Bourne" show, hosts Nick Kypreos and Justin Bourne agreed that the Leafs should look at reducing rookie Matthew Knies minutes and maybe move him down the lineup for a short stint to let him reset. Kypreos and Bourne agreed that Knies seems overwhelmed right now and could use some sheltered minutes.
In 21 games so far with the Leafs this season, Knies has 6 goals and 10 points, but has struggled in the defensive and neutral zones with the puck. There haven't been too many mistakes that have turned into goals against, but they very well could have as they have caused the Leafs to be hemmed in in their own zone for extended periods of time.
On today's episode, Bourne and Kypreos touched on that discussion again, raising the point that the Leafs don't really have a left winger to play in that top spot.
Bourne echoed Kypreos' comments saying:
In their brainstorming, Kypreos and Bourne proposed a wild idea that could actually work.
Gregor, who signed a 1-year deal with the Leafs just before the season started after attending camp on a PTO, has found a home on their fourth line. Averaging just over 10 minutes per game, Gregor could supply the top line with some speed, scoring touch and physicality, acting in more of a Zach Hyman type role.
When Kypreos mentioned the idea, Bourne's face lit up in excitement.
Personally, I don't hate the idea. It doesn't have to be for a game or even multiple periods, but, intermittently, it would give the top line a different look and it would give Knies a chance to reset. If Knies continues to struggle and with Calle Jarnkrok the defensive presence on the third line, it would be an interesting combination to see Keefe try.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 2 | 443 ANSWERS Radio hosts believe the Leafs should demote Matthew Knies and try something wild for the top line Would you try Gregor with Matthews and Nylander? | ||
| Yes, his speed and physicality are an asset | 353 | 79.7 % |
| No, he doesn't have the skill to keep up | 90 | 20.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
