Matthew Knies: The Ideal Trade Target for the Chicago Blackhawks

Following the recent NHL Trade Deadline, reports from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman indicated that the Chicago Blackhawks were among the teams inquiring with the Toronto Maple Leafs about their promising young winger, Matthew Knies. Chicago's interest in Knies is not new; in 2022, a preliminary deal involving Brandon Hagel and Marc-Andre Fleury moving to Toronto in exchange for a package including Knies was discussed.

While both previous attempts to acquire Knies did not materialize, the Blackhawks' clear valuation of the player suggests strong continued interest. General Manager Kyle Davidson should prioritize acquiring Knies this offseason if the opportunity arises.

Knies: A Perfect Linemate for Connor Bedard

Knies is an effective NHL player, standing at 6-foot-3 and 232 pounds, known for his physical play combined with skill, all at just 23 years old. He offers excellent value under his current six-year contract, signed last June, with an average annual value (AAV) of $7.750 million. This is already a reasonable figure, and it's expected to become even more favorable as Knies develops further and the salary cap increases.

Despite playing on a Maple Leafs team that has faced a challenging season, Knies has recorded 20 goals and 39 assists in 69 games, even while contending with a knee injury. He has evolved from primarily a goal scorer to a more balanced playmaker over his two NHL seasons. In the 2024-25 season, he put up an impressive 29 goals and 29 assists in 78 games. This year, he has already reached the 20-goal mark and added 10 more assists in 10 fewer games.

What makes him an excellent fit for Bedard? While Bedard has excelled alongside Ryan Greene, and fans are eager to see prospect Anton Frondell play on the top line over the struggling Andre Burakovsky, Knies brings valuable experience playing with elite talent. He previously thrived on a line with Auston Matthews and Mitch Marner in Toronto.

Knies' ability to win puck battles in the corners and effectively operate in front of the net would relieve Bedard, and potentially Frondell, of some "dirty work" responsibilities. Pairing Bedard's potent shot with Knies' strong net-front presence would create a formidable offensive combination.

The Cost of Acquiring Knies

I've previously emphasized that Davidson needs to start leveraging the team's assets to upgrade the roster and accelerate the rebuild. Acquiring Knies presents a prime opportunity to do so, even if the price is substantial.

A trade package for Knies would likely need to be anchored by rookie Nick Lardis, alongside a couple of draft picks. This is undoubtedly a high cost. While I've advocated for head coach Jeff Blashill to give Lardis more ice time—and Lardis capitalized on that recently with a goal and two assists in a 4-3 win over the New York Islanders—Knies represents a unique asset.

Knies is a young, cost-controlled winger who possesses the attributes every team desires in today's NHL, especially his ability to perform alongside top-tier players. Davidson must be prepared to make a significant move. While some attention is on Dallas Stars winger Jason Robertson, a trade involving him seems less probable. Knies emerges as the perfect alternative if the Maple Leafs become willing to part ways with him. The Blackhawks should revisit their interest in Knies this summer and aim to finalize a deal.