Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies is coming off a nice season with the team, and as a result, the NHL is putting him next to some elite company.
Matthew Knies had 29 goals last season, and he managed to add another 29 assists to this total, making him one of the best young stars last season.
NHL.com has ranked the top 10 forwards under 25 heading into next season. Fresh off his extension, Matthew Knies is ranked as the 8th-best in the NHL under 25.
Ahead of players like Seth Jarvis and Matvei Michkov, but behind names like Macklin Celebrini and Connor Bedard.
There is going to be even more pressure on Knies this season in light of Mitch Marner's absence. Someone has to take control, and some fans want it to be Knies.
Having said that, nothing comes easy in the National Hockey League, and the forward is going to have to continue to work hard.
Next season will be a fun one, and we cannot wait to see him continue to grow alongside Auston Matthews.
Perhaps with Knies, the Leafs won't have to give up the Core Four after all.