Ex-Gophers star Matthew Knies signs lucrative deal to remain with Maple Leafs

Knies will be staying in Toronto long-term.

May 9, 2025; Sunrise, Florida, USA; Toronto Maple Leafs left wing Matthew Knies (23) moves the puck against the Florida Panthers during the first period in game three of the second round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Former Gophers hockey star Matthew Knies has signed a six-year contract extension worth roughly $7.75 million per year to remain with the Toronto Maple Leafs, according to TSN NHL Insider Chris Johnston.

BREAKING: Matthew Knies has agreed to a six-year extension with the Maple Leafs worth $7.75M per year to stay in Toronto, per @reporterchris. pic.twitter.com/1zVHtI9Mts

— TSN (@TSN_Sports) June 29, 2025

Knies played 73 career games with the Gophers across two seasons from 2021 to 2023. He compiled 75 total points with 36 goals and 39 assists. He was selected in the second round of the 2021 NHL Draft by the Maple Leafs with the 57th overall pick.

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He just wrapped up his second full NHL season, and it was his best. He totaled 58 points with 29 goals and 29 assists in 2024-25. He won't turn 23 until October, but he's now tied to Toronto for at least six more seasons.