In this edition of Toronto Maple Leafs News and Rumors, I’ll focus on some of the younger players in the organization and assess what their upcoming season might look like. These include Matthew Knies, who is already a regular in the lineup and expected to play a key role. Then there’s Fraser Minten, who has the potential to crack the roster but could also find himself developing further before jumping to the NHL.
I’ll also look at young goaltender Dennis Hildeby, who will likely spend another season in the American Hockey League (AHL) with the Toronto Marlies unless something drastic happens with the NHL roster. Finally, I’ll touch on depth defenceman Marshall Rifai, who recently signed a two-year contract at the NHL league minimum, signaling his progression within the organization.
Item 1: Matthew Knies Ranks Among NHL’s Best Players Under 23
In this year’s NHL under-23 player rankings, Knies earned a spot among the top 50, coming in at number 37. As the Maple Leafs’ promising young winger, he has quickly become a fan favourite—for good reason (from “Ranking the best NHL players and prospects under 23: Bedard, Stützle, Celebrini top the list,” Corey Pronman, The Athletic, 03/09/2024).
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Knies had an impressive rookie season, posting 35 points and impacting Toronto’s high-powered offence. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 217 pounds, he combines size, strength, and skill, making him a force on the ice. He thrives in high-traffic areas, using his courage and tenacity to drive to the net and create scoring chances. While not the most natural playmaker, his excellent hands and ability to generate offence in tight spaces make him a valuable asset.
Although his skating has been a concern in the past, Knies’ work ethic and physical play have helped him overcome those limitations. With a solid two-way game and offensive upside, he looks poised for a long and successful career as a top-six forward for the Maple Leafs. His ranking at number 37 reflects the high expectations around the league, and Knies is likely to be a key part of Toronto’s future success.
Item 2: Fraser Minten’s Development and What’s Next
Minten, drafted by the Maple Leafs in 2022, has earned praise for his leadership qualities, high hockey IQ, and solid overall skill set. While his skill set may…
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