Leafs Select Power Forward Matthew Knies In Second Round.
The Toronto Maple Leafs didn't have a first round pick this year thanks to the Nick Foligno trade so general manager Kyle Dubas was looking to make the most of his second round pick. At #57 overall, the Leafs selected forward Matthew Knies. The 6'3 210 18 year old currently plays with Tri-City of the USHL and registered 42 points in 44 games last year. From Corey Pronman of The Athletic:Knies had a great underage season but his draft season was a struggle to produce as much offense as expected. Despite his mediocre point totals (42 points in 44 games) I still see a very talented player and he was an important player for a top USHL team in all situations. I see a 6-foot-3 forward with great hands who can beat defenders clean with skill. I debated his sense being listed as «average» or «below-average.» I've seen enough plays from him, particularly as an underage, to say he can see the ice, but this past season made me question his sense at times and his puck decisions. His game lacks finish as well, although he went on a big goal scoring tear to end the season. Knies works hard on the ice, winning a lot of battles, killing penalties and taking pucks to the net. His skating isn't the best and will lack the ability to separate at the NHL level. In a sentence, Knies projects as an NHL two-way middle-six winger.
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