In the end, whether you side with Paul Bissonnette or view his comments as over-the-top, one thing is clear: the Knies contract situation will be one of the most talked-about stories of the offseason
With expectations high in Toronto and the salary cap crunch always looming, both sides must navigate the negotiations carefully.
If Knies wants to bet on himself, he may seek a bridge deal or wait until free agency. If he wants long-term security—and the trust of the franchise—a fair deal around Bissonnette’s proposed number might be the way to go.
Whatever happens, hockey fans will be watching closely.
Next up for the Maple Leafs is a home matchup against the Boston Bruins, another key Atlantic Division rival. For Tampa Bay, the road continues with a visit to the Carolina Hurricanes.
Both teams are eyeing postseason form, and with performances like Knies’ on display, the Eastern Conference playoff race is shaping up to be one for the ages.
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Paul Bissonnette Blasts Matthew Knies’ Camp Over Contract Standoff
In the ever-scrutinized world of NHL contract negotiations, few situations stir up controversy quite like a promising young star potentially holding out for more money.1
This week, former NHL player and current media analyst Paul Bissonnette ignited debate by calling out the camp of Toronto Maple Leafs winger Matthew Knies, claiming it would be “gutless” for them to reject a massive $72 million extension offer from the team.
Bissonnette, known as “BizNasty” from his podcasting and NHL media work, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his frustrations over what he views as unreasonable expectations from Knies’ representatives.
Comparing Knies to Dallas Stars forward Wyatt Johnston, Bissonnette claimed Johnston’s track record justified his hefty contract more than anything Knies has shown to date.
“Wyatt Johnston got an 8.5m AAV over 5 and his numbers are far more impressive over 3 years,” Bissonnette wrote. “If Knies’ camp doesn’t want to work a deal out around that number, it’s bullshit. 8×9 is where I would get. If he doesn’t take that, it’s gutless IMO. Look who he plays with.”
10 days left to sign up for Knies and Doan Hockey Academy. Visit our website for more details https://t.co/OYKf1myRs6
— Matt Knies (@Matthew_Knies) June 17, 2022
A Generous Offer: 8 Years, $72 Million
The deal in question would reportedly see Knies earn $9 million annually over eight years, totaling $72 million—a massive leap from his current entry-level contract.
Knies is in the final year of his three-year, $2.775 million ELC, with an average annual value (AAV) of just $925,000.
To put things in perspective, Knies’ new deal would place him among the highest-paid players on the Maple Leafs roster.
Considering he plays alongside elite talents such as Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner, the proposed figure reflects the Maple Leafs’ belief in his potential.
Matthew Knies: Comparing the Numbers
Knies vs. Johnston
Bissonnette’s main argument hinged on statistical comparisons.2
Wyatt Johnston, a fellow young standout, recently signed a five-year, $42 million contract with an AAV of $8.4 million.
Johnston has accumulated stronger numbers over the course of three seasons with the Stars, demonstrating consistent growth and performance.
On the other hand, Knies has recorded 55 points (29 goals, 26 assists) this season. While impressive for a player still on his entry-level deal, it’s clear Johnston’s resume is deeper, making his slightly smaller AAV look like a bargain by comparison.
The Market Dynamics of NHL Contracts
Bissonnette’s comments also bring to light a broader conversation around how NHL teams structure contracts for emerging stars.
With the salary cap expected to rise in the coming seasons, young players and their agents are more aggressive in seeking long-term security with high paydays.
For the Maple Leafs, a deal of this magnitude could be a double-edged sword. While locking up a promising forward like Knies secures the core, it also places increased strain on their already top-heavy salary structure.
Known for his raw takes and fan-favorite podcast “Spittin’ Chiclets,” Paul Bissonnette rarely holds back. His take on the Knies situation isn’t just about numbers—it’s also about perceived entitlement and locker room dynamics.
Calling Knies’ camp “gutless” for potentially turning down the deal, Bissonnette aimed at what he believes is a lack of gratitude or self-awareness. His belief is simple: Knies is being offered a life-changing sum, has the advantage of playing with world-class linemates, and hasn’t proven enough to demand more.
Toronto Maple Leafs’ Salary Cap Puzzle
The Leafs’ cap situation has long been one of the most complex in the league. Between Matthews, Marner, William Nylander, and John Tavares, Toronto’s top four contracts account for over $40 million in cap space.
Adding Knies at $9 million annually would continue that trend of heavy investment in a few key forwards.
General Manager Brad Treliving has the unenviable task of keeping the Leafs competitive while balancing future obligations. If the team ties up big money in Knies, it could limit flexibility in areas like defense and goaltending.
While Bissonnette’s comments provide a clear media perspective, there’s still some mystery around what Knies himself is looking for. According to reports, his camp expects to handle extension talks this offseason, though no official offers or rejections have been confirmed.
It’s possible Knies is waiting to see what the market yields—especially with other young forwards like Lucas Raymond, Anton Lundell, and Seth Jarvis due for extensions. His agent might be hoping to push past the $9 million mark, especially if his scoring pace holds or improves into the playoffs.
Matthew Knies: Fan Reactions
Divided Opinions
Unsurprisingly, Bissonnette’s fiery tweet stirred up plenty of reactions from fans and analysts alike.3
Some agreed wholeheartedly, believing Knies should accept a $72 million deal without hesitation.
Others felt Bissonnette was out of line, arguing that Knies has every right to negotiate for his value in an evolving market.
“Paul Bissonnette isn’t in the room with Knies’ agent. Maybe they have a smart plan,” one fan tweeted.
“Knies has barely scratched the surface, but he’s got the tools. $9M is fair, not gutless to want more context,” said another.
As the NHL continues to shift toward youth-centric models, more players are cashing in early in their careers. It’s no longer uncommon for players under 25 to land massive contracts—especially if they show top-six forward potential.
Knies fits that mold: a 6’3″ power forward with hands, speed, and a tenacity that complements Toronto’s offensive style. Teams are willing to pay for what a player could become, not just what they’ve already done.
What’s Next for Knies and the Leafs?
Whether Knies accepts a deal close to Bissonnette’s suggested number or pushes for more, the Leafs’ front office will need to make a decision soon.
Letting Knies walk or dragging out negotiations could lead to a restricted free agency scenario, something Toronto surely wants to avoid.
There’s also the pressure of the Stanley Cup Playoffs looming. If Knies performs well, his value could climb even higher—something his camp may be banking on.
Paul Bissonnette may no longer lace up the skates, but his voice carries weight in today’s NHL media landscape. Whether fans agree or disagree with his take, there’s no doubt his blunt approach keeps discussions lively.
By shining a light on the Knies negotiations, Bissonnette ensured this situation won’t fly under the radar. If nothing else, it puts added pressure on both Knies’ camp and the Leafs front office to reach a deal that feels fair for all sides.
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Matthew Knies Delivers Heroics as Maple Leafs Edge Lightning in Overtime
In a thrilling showdown at Amalie Arena on Wednesday night, Matthew Knies etched his name into the spotlight, scoring a hat trick, including the game-winner in overtime, to lift the Toronto Maple Leafs to a 4-3 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The win marked a statement performance by the 21-year-old and bolstered the Maple Leafs’ positioning atop the Atlantic Division.
The Maple Leafs wasted no time asserting their presence on the ice. Just 1:13 into the game, Mitch Marner opened the scoring with a precision finish that silenced the home crowd. Marner’s goal, a result of a well-orchestrated offensive rush, set the tone for what would become a dynamic and high-tempo matchup.
Barely two minutes later, Knies notched his first goal of the evening, extending Toronto’s lead to 2-0. The young winger capitalized on a rebound opportunity, showcasing his awareness and offensive instinct. His ability to find space in front of the net and bury the puck was a harbinger of what was to come.
Lightning Strike Back: Late First-Period Push
- Though the Leafs looked dominant early, the Lightning showed resilience late in the first period.
- With just under two minutes left before intermission, defenseman Nick Perbix managed to beat Ilya Samsonov with a wrister from the blue line, cutting the Leafs’ lead to 2-1.
- The goal provided Tampa with much-needed momentum heading into the second period.
- Despite Toronto’s early flurry, the Lightning’s veteran-laden roster demonstrated poise, ensuring the Leafs couldn’t run away with the game early.
- The second period played out in stark contrast to the explosive opening frame. Both teams tightened up defensively, creating a period filled with blocked shots, solid backchecking, and crucial saves from both goaltenders.
- Andrei Vasilevskiy kept Tampa in the game with key stops on Auston Matthews and William Nylander, while Samsonov held firm at the other end.
- Though scoreless, the second period showcased the strategic adjustments made by both coaches.
- Jon Cooper’s Lightning focused on limiting Toronto’s transition game, while Sheldon Keefe encouraged his defensemen to maintain tight gaps and limit shooting lanes.
Matthew Knies: Completes Hat Trick in Style
In the extra period, with the game hanging in the balance, Matthew Knies seized his moment.
At 2:56 into overtime, Knies picked up a loose puck in the neutral zone, carried it into the offensive zone, and with a burst of speed and an impressive toe drag, deked past Mikhail Sergachev before firing a shot past Vasilevskiy.
The celebration was electric, with teammates pouring over the boards to mob the young forward, who had just delivered a signature performance.
Knies not only completed his first NHL hat trick but also cemented his status as a rising star in Toronto’s lineup.
Knies Stepping into the Spotlight
With the spotlight on Toronto’s more seasoned stars like Auston Matthews, John Tavares, and Mitch Marner, Knies has steadily carved out a significant role in the lineup.
Wednesday night’s hat trick was a culmination of weeks of consistent play and growing confidence. The former University of Minnesota standout has seamlessly transitioned into the NHL, bringing size, speed, and scoring touch to the Leafs’ forward corps.
Keefe praised Knies after the game:
“Matthew’s performance tonight was something special. He’s been working incredibly hard, and tonight he got rewarded in a big way. He’s got that knack for the net, and he showed why we’re so excited about his future.”
Matthew Knies: Promotion
Matthew Knies joins the adidas family and kicking off this partnership with a new campaign.
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Team Implications: Leafs Hit the Century Mark
With the victory, the Maple Leafs improved their record to 44-26-4, reaching the 100-point mark and solidifying their position at the top of the Atlantic Division.
With the postseason on the horizon, games like these serve as valuable experience for young players like Knies and test the team’s ability to execute under pressure.
Toronto’s depth has been a point of emphasis all season, and contributions from players beyond the core four will be essential for a deep playoff run. Knies’ emergence adds another dimension to an already potent offensive lineup.
Tampa’s Takeaways: Still Dangerous in the East
- Despite the loss, the Tampa Bay Lightning proved they’re still a formidable force.
- The team’s power play remains lethal, converting twice on the night, and their core—Hedman, Kucherov, Point, and Stamkos—continues to be among the league’s elite.
- Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy was sharp despite the overtime goal, finishing with 32 saves.
- The Lightning sit firmly in the Eastern Conference playoff picture, and while they may not dominate the standings like years past, their experience and competitive spirit make them a dangerous opponent come spring.
- This game will be remembered as Matthew Knies’ breakout performance. Scoring a hat trick in a high-stakes matchup against a perennial playoff contender is no small feat.
- For Leafs fans, it was a glimpse into a promising future—one where Knies may play a pivotal role in the franchise’s pursuit of a Stanley Cup.
- The Maple Leafs now turn their attention to maintaining momentum as the regular season winds down.
- With Knies’ emergence, Toronto looks more complete and capable of overcoming the hurdles that have plagued them in past playoff runs.
