World Juniors Leafs prospect profile: Matthew Knies
Matthew Knies is a promising young talent for the Toronto Maple Leafs. GM Kyle Dubas selected Knies in the second round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft with the 57th overall pick.
Knies has, as expected, returned to the University of Minnesota to play out his first year of eligibility due to the COVID stoppage of play last season. He is third in team scoring with 7 goals and 9 assists for 16 total points.
Knies is an Arizona native and his size and skillset is reminiscent of the other Arizona Leafs product, Auston Matthews. Like Matthews, Knies is built similarly, listed at 6'3", 210lbs, shoots left and uses his big frame to protect the puck. He also has a lethal wrister.
Real nice shot from Matthew Knies for his second goal of the game vs. SWE.
He's been dangerous in this event. Nice to see him rewarded on the scoresheet. pic.twitter.com/PyTKZBPgLU� Kevin Papetti (@KPapetti) July 28, 2021
Knies is in his last season of world junior eligibility and looking to impress at the tournament. His skill and net front ability cannot be denied and gives Leafs fans a reason to cheer for the United States, or at very least, Knies' individual success.
If his world juniors debut is at all similar to that of his college career, he will be a force for the United States team as they look to repeat championships. Knies was left off that roster and looking to showcase his abilities on the international level.
