Matthew Knies and Maple Leafs 'Far Apart' in Contract Talks: Kyle Dubas Could Add His Former Player

The Toronto Maple Leafs had another disappointing end to their season in 2025, and as a result, they're looking to improve in a big way this summer, especially with star forward Mitch Marner on the way out in free agency.

As a result of that, the team are likely looking to lock in young winger Matthew Knies on a long-term deal, but according to recent reports from Nick Alberga, the two parties are far apart on contract talks at this point in time.

That doesn't mean that they won't get a deal done in the coming weeks, but with how negotiations have gone thus far, there's always a chance that another team can swoop in with a big offer sheet for the 22-year old star.

In his second full NHL season in 2024/25, Knies took a huge step forward, tallying 29 goals and 58 points in 78 games played, and with a very bright future ahead, the team will try to lock him up long-term.

However, negotiations hitting a snag could open the door for Knies' former GM Kyle Dubas to swoop in and make an offer, as it would give the team a star winger of the future to build around alongside other young names like Rutger McGroarty.

This past season, Knies made it clear that he wants to be in Toronto, but if the two sides can't come together and find common ground on a deal, this should be one that Kyle Dubas is all in on, as Knies could be a key piece of this rebuild in Pittsburgh moving forward, so keep a close eye on this situation.