Contract prices around the NHL are absolutely rocketing, and it's making Matthew Knies' current deal for the Toronto Maple Leafs look like an outright bargain. Trevor Zegras just inked a four-year contract with the Philadelphia Flyers for a staggering $9.125 million per year. That's a huge number, and it's just the latest example of how quickly player value is exploding across the league.
The Market Says Knies is Underpaid, Big Time
Think about it: earlier this offseason, the Flyers threw an offer sheet at young phenom Leo Carlsson for a wild $18 million! The Ducks had to match it just to keep their center, setting a record price. Now, Matthew Knies isn't gonna hit $18 million a year, but the guy is a serious talent. He's only 23 years old, a winger with physical ability that coaches dream about. If he was on the open market right now, he'd pull in way more than his current $7.75 million per year. That contract runs through the 2030-31 season, too. If he keeps playing at this level, and let's be real, he's only going to get better as he ages, that deal is going to look like highway robbery for the Maple Leafs for most of its length. Seriously, Nick Alberga from The Golden Muzzy tweeted that Knies contract looks better and better by the day, and he's not wrong.Trading Knies? It Just Doesn't Add Up
Sure, you could argue that Knies' value makes him a prime trade chip, and he could net a huge return for Toronto. His contract is so team-friendly that other clubs would be salivating. But the Maple Leafs are focused on a quick return to contention. So, trading a player who's already proving to be a bargain, and improving, just doesn't make sense right now. What are the odds they get equal value back for a guy already on their roster, playing great, and signed long-term? Yeah, Gavin McKenna's presence makes the wing a bit more crowded in Toronto. But who's gonna complain about having too many valuable forwards? Especially if they keep getting better! The Maple Leafs need to hold onto Knies. His contract alone is a massive asset for a team trying to compete. Look for him to keep proving why he's one of the most important pieces of their future.This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.