'Forget feelings': Trading Matthew Knies is the only way for the Leafs to win
Photo credit: Matt Krohn-Imagn Images
Something has to change for the Toronto Maple Leafs, and that change might be trading power forward Matthew Knies.
The Maple Leafs are evaluating every single asset. The core is squarely under the microscope.
On Wednesday, Kyper and Bourne made it clear on Sportsnet. Feelings do not dictate roster moves in this league.
Knies brings a 6-foot-3 frame and crucial net-front presence. He played heavy minutes and established himself as a physical force.
But Toronto requires elite blue-line help immediately. Crisp passing from the defensive zone remains a glaring weakness for this roster.
A 23-year-old power forward on a cheap contract is a premium trade chip. Opposing executives are absolutely circling.
The Cost of Contending for the Toronto Maple Leafs
Brad Treliving cannot afford another early postseason exit. He has to weaponize his remaining youth to acquire a top-pairing defenseman.
A veteran blueliner logging 24 minutes a night changes the entire dynamic. The transition game instantly improves.
Trading a homegrown talent hurts the locker room. The fan base will undoubtedly voice their frustration if a deal materializes.
Winning the Stanley Cup requires ruthless calculation. The logo on the front matters significantly more than the name on the back.
If moving Knies lands a legitimate shutdown defender, the deal gets done. Expect major fireworks before training camp opens.
Also read on House Of Hockey :
Auston Matthews' future in Toronto officially in question, and it may be the right decision
Auston Matthews' future in Toronto officially in question, and it may be the right decision
| POLL | ||
MARS 19|194 ANSWERS 'Forget feelings': Trading Matthew Knies is the only way for the Leafs to win Will the Maple Leafs trade Matthew Knies before next season? | ||
| Yes | 78 | 40.2 % |
| No | 116 | 59.8 % |
| List of polls | ||