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Radio hosts believe the Leafs should demote Matthew Knies and try something wild for the top line

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Ryan Smitheram
December 2, 2023 (9:28)

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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.

"Behind Bertuzzi, [Keefe] doesn't know what to do on the left side," said Kypreos.

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Bourne echoed Kypreos' comments saying:

"I wouldn't know who to put there. I guess Jarnkrok. I've thought about it. I don't know who you would put there given Knies, it looks like you need to back off him a little bit."

In their brainstorming, Kypreos and Bourne proposed a wild idea that could actually work.

"When Knies struggles or makes a bad play, put Gregor up there and get him [up there] for a period or a few shifts or something. He's not going to hurt you," said Kypreos.

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.

"This guy cares. He works, he checks, he finishes his hits, he can skate. I feel like, what am I missing with Gregor because I think he is so good. I think he is very effective. I think he is a guy that can play top-six. I don't think he's Auston Matthews' partner for the year, but I don't think he's less effective than Knies."

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.

Previously on MapleLeafsDaily

Video emerges of an ex-Leafs GM turning down a trade for a Norris Trophy winner

The goaltending controversy in Toronto is over; there's a new 1G in town

Early scoring flurry from Auston Matthews distracting us from his current lack of production

POLL
2 DECEMBRE \| 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 %
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