Player Discussion Matthew Knies | Built for the Playoffs

[Jimmy Firecracker]

This kid has only gotten better since he was our good luck charm against Tampa in his debut, being on the ice for three straight OT winners. After a strong showing against Ottawa I think he’ll have a big impact in the series against Florida, especially after his last go-around with them in the postseason was ended early.

Joshua Kloke had a good profile on him in The Athletic and his attitude is perfect for this team.

Maple Leafs’ Matthew Knies is built for NHL playoffs — and he’s just scratching the surface

Knies not only understands the pressure that comes with the postseason, but he also knows how to respond to it.

www.nytimes.com

If you ask Matthew Knies about his breakout playoff series against the Boston Bruins last year, he’ll shake his head in frustration.

… No, Knies will only look back with something between resolve and longing when he discusses Game 1 against the Bruins. Early in the second period, with Boston already up 1-0, Knies tried to block a Brad Marchand shot. He got some, but not all, of his massive frame on the block. The puck stayed in the Bruins’ zone and in their possession. Seconds later, they scored their second goal in an eventual 5-1 win.

That play — not even a full turnover, mind you — is what stings a full year later.

Asked before the playoffs began which Leaf surprised him the most this season, Berube could barely hide his eagerness about one specific player.

“Matthew Knies has surprised me with the growth from training camp on throughout the season, with how he has grown as a player and what he has accomplished this year. I’m not sure I pictured that,” Berube said. “He’s been a special surprise — maybe not a surprise so much because the ability was there, but he is young, and as a young guy, he has grown quickly.”

 

[TopCheeseShotta]

This is exactly the type of round you'd love to see this guy have a statement game or two in. A bunch of dudes who think they can intimidate you over there, and this man is just unflappable. Go get it Knies-y, ya f'n beast!!!

 

[thewave]

Could use another Knies at RW that is a bit better playmaker. That would be awesome.

 

[Confucius]

Knives “A game” is playoff hockey, the core have to do what doesn’t come naturally in their “A game” it is a tougher assignment for them.

 

[MCR74]

That moron Golden Jet has started a Tkachuk v. Knies poll, and Sens fans are going apeshit on whoever doesn't pick their boy. Good stuff.

 

[Punch Drunk Loov]

Personification of Creed. Hell yeah brother

 

[1specter]

That moron Golden Jet has started a Tkachuk v. Knies poll, and Sens fans are going apeshit on whoever doesn't pick their boy. Good stuff.

Careful now, he will read this and report you. He's always reading our forums

 

[ChurchOfMatthews]

Careful now, he will read this and report you. He's always reading our forums

How pathetic.

 

[MCR74]

Careful now, he will read this and report you. He's always reading our forums

Wouldn't surprise me. The guy is a closet Leaf fan after all.

 

[ACC1224]

Wouldn't surprise me. The guy is a closet Leaf fan after all.

There seems to be a few of them in the closet, think he shares one with Bert.

 

[ACC1224]

Does Knies get consideration for the Olympics next year?

 

[MCR74]

Does Knies get consideration for the Olympics next year?

Keep this up, and he should.

 

[1specter]

Does Knies get consideration for the Olympics next year?

Given the U.S. likes to build its rosters around players who bring skill, speed and jam, Knies almost fits the bill perfectly. He's kinda your quintessential USA hockey player these days.

 

[MCR74]

There seems to be a few of them in the closet, think he shares one with Bert.

I'm stunned they haven't complained that we're using the term "built for the playoffs".