Blackhawks Rumors: Maple Leafs’ Matthew Knies a fit beside Connor Bedard

The Chicago Blackhawks have long searched for the ideal winger to complement Connor Bedard. At the same time, the Toronto Maple Leafs are actively exploring the trade market for forward Matthew Knies as he continues to surface in rumors.

During a discussion on Sportsnet, NHL insider David Pagnotta suggested Knies is exactly the type of player Chicago wants on its top line.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Chicago circles back because that’s the exact type of player they’ve been pinpointing to play alongside Connor Bedard on their top line in Chicago,” Pagnotta said. “That’s what they’re looking for actively.”

The conversation gained traction when Nick Kypreos suggested the fourth overall pick could be a significant asset in trade talks with Toronto. However, that specific scenario is no longer available.

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Chicago traded the fourth overall selection to Buffalo in a deal that brought defenseman Bowen Byram and forward Jordan Greenway to the Blackhawks. The Sabres now own the pick, removing the most obvious trade chip from Chicago’s arsenal.

Why Matthew Knies still makes sense for Chicago?

Even without the fourth pick, the fit remains clear.

Chicago finished 29-39-14 in 2025-26 and ranked near the bottom of the NHL despite an 11-point improvement. Bedard continued his development into a franchise centerpiece, producing 30 goals and 75 points in 69 games.

What the Blackhawks still lack is a power winger capable of creating space, winning puck battles, and finishing around the net. Knies checks every box.

The 23-year-old recorded 23 goals and 66 points in 79 games last season while adding 152 hits. He is signed through 2030-31 with a $7.75 million cap hit and carries no trade protection.

From Toronto’s perspective, moving Knies remains difficult to justify. New general manager John Chayka has reshaped the organization after a disastrous season, but dealing one of the club’s youngest core players would require a massive return.

Pagnotta acknowledged that reality.

“If you do move him out, it is going to cost a significant package in order for the Toronto Maple Leafs to be convinced to do it,” Pagnotta said.

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With Gavin McKenna expected to join Toronto if they select him first overall, rival teams may continue calling about Knies. Chicago remains a logical suitor, but after surrendering the fourth pick, finding a package that interests Toronto became considerably more challenging.