Matthew Knies Bio
Matthew Michael Knies is an American professional ice hockey forward for the Toronto Maple Leafs of the National Hockey League (NHL). Knies was drafted 57th overall by the Maple Leafs in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. He began his professional career in 2023 and has quickly made a name for himself in the league. Known for his skill and determination on the ice, Knies has already achieved significant milestones early in his career, including participation in the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Early Life and Background
Matthew Knies was born on October 17, 2002, in Phoenix, Arizona, United States. He comes from a family with Slovak roots, as his parents, Miroslav and Michaela Knies, immigrated to the United States from Slovakia. Growing up in Arizona, Knies developed a passion for ice hockey at a young age, influenced by the local NHL team, the Arizona Coyotes. He has an older brother, Phillip, who also pursued a career in ice hockey, playing for Miami University and Bentley University. Knies is fluent in Slovak, which he uses to communicate with his grandparents.
Path to Hockey
Knies began his hockey journey by playing in youth leagues before joining the Tri-City Storm of the United States Hockey League (USHL). During his time with the Storm, he played two full seasons, recording impressive statistics with 31 goals and 56 assists over 90 games. His performance caught the attention of NHL scouts, leading to his selection in the second round of the 2021 NHL Entry Draft by the Toronto Maple Leafs. Following his junior career, Knies moved on to play for the Minnesota Golden Gophers, where he further honed his skills and showcased his talent on a collegiate level.
Matthew Knies Career
Early Career (2021–2023)
Knies began his collegiate career with the Minnesota Golden Gophers during the 2021–22 season. He made an immediate impact, ranking tied for third on the team and first among freshmen with 10 goals and 17 assists in 29 games. His outstanding performance earned him a unanimous selection to the Big Ten All-Freshman Team and a nomination for Big Ten Freshman of the Year. In the following season, Knies continued to excel, scoring 21 goals and 21 assists in 40 games while playing on a top line with fellow NHL prospects Logan Cooley and Jimmy Snuggerud. His efforts were recognized when he won the Big Ten Player of the Year award and was named a finalist for the prestigious Hobey Baker Award.
Breakthrough (2023–Present)
Knies signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs on April 9, 2023. He made his NHL debut the following day against the Florida Panthers and quickly became a key player for the team. During the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs, Knies played a crucial role, contributing a primary assist on the series-clinching goal in Game 6 against the Tampa Bay Lightning, marking the Maple Leafs’ first playoff series victory since 2004. He scored his first career NHL goal in the opening game of the second round against the Florida Panthers on May 2, 2023. Knies demonstrated his versatility and skill, achieving a Gordie Howe hat trick in a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on December 16, 2023, and recording his first career hat-trick against the Boston Bruins on January 4, 2025.
Notable Works and Milestones
Matthew Knies has quickly established himself as a promising talent in the NHL, with significant contributions to the Toronto Maple Leafs. His achievements include a strong collegiate career, participation in the Stanley Cup playoffs, and recognition for his performance during his rookie season.
Matthew Knies Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Matthew Knies has received nominations for various awards, including being a finalist for the Big Ten Freshman of the Year and the Hobey Baker Award.
Matthew Knies Awards Won
Matthew Knies has won the Big Ten Player of the Year award during his collegiate career, highlighting his exceptional performance and impact on the ice.
Matthew Knies Family
Matthew Knies was born to Miroslav and Michaela Knies. He has an older brother, Phillip, who also played ice hockey at the collegiate level.
Personal Life
Matthew Knies maintains a low profile regarding his personal life. He is known to be fluent in Slovak and has a close relationship with his family, often communicating in Slovak with his grandparents. His upbringing in Arizona and his family’s background have significantly influenced his journey in ice hockey.
