In a stunning move that’s sending shockwaves through the NHL, Toronto Maple Leafs rising star Matthew Knies has officially rejected and ended a proposed $55.8 million contract deal that involved fellow Leafs forward Mitch Marner.
Sources close to the organization confirmed that the deal, rumored to be part of a long-term plan to secure both Knies and Marner as the future core of the Leafs’ offense, fell apart late last night after negotiations reportedly hit a wall.
Insiders say Knies, 22, was uncomfortable with the structure and long-term implications of the deal, despite the massive payout. The proposed contract would have locked both players in through 2032, effectively shaping the team’s identity for the rest of the decade.
🚨 What This Means:
Marner’s future with Toronto may now be in question.
Knies could be eyeing a shorter-term, higher-AAV contract or exploring other strategic options.
The Leafs’ front office faces renewed pressure heading into training camp.
Fans and analysts alike are reacting with surprise, many pointing to Knies’ breakout season last year as a sign he was ready to cement his future in Toronto. But this latest development raises new uncertainty as the Maple Leafs attempt to balance salary cap concerns with championship aspirations.
