Top Leafs prospect set to begin what the Leafs hope is his final NCAA season

Knies was drafted by the Leafs 57th overall in the 2021 NHL draft. The 19-year-old played for the University of Minnesota last season, with 15 goals and 33 points in 33 games. The Leafs were hoping he would decide to make the jump to the NHL this season, but he ultimately decided to return to the University of Minnesota for another season. Knies is eligible to join the Leafs in the spring once the NCAA season ends should he so choose, and that would be right in time for a playoff run.

Knies took part in summer development camp with the Leafs in July and looked like a man among boys during the initial practices. He didn't stand out as much during the scrimmages, but much of Knies' game is built around physical play and finishing checks. He wasn't about to run over his teammates during scrimmage play at a summer prospect camp, so it's no wonder why he didn't exactly stand out.

The Leafs are hoping that the 19-year-old can continue to mature in his sophomore season with the Golden Gophers and play a key role for the team in all situations while still maintaining his physical presence and heavy shot.

Knies and fellow Leafs prospect Mikey Koster are set to face off against Lindenwood at 8PM Saturday night. Other Leafs prospects set for NCAA action include Ryan Tverberg, Veeti Miettinen and Wyatt Schingoethe.