From Slovak roots to a Gordie Howe hat trick
In short: Matthew Knies represents the modern hockey trajectory: an immigrant success story defined by rapid collegiate ascent and a versatile NHL game. From his roots in Arizona to a pivotal role in Toronto's playoff history, Knies has mastered the rare balance of offensive production and physical grit.
Born in 2002 to Slovak immigrants, Knies grew up in Arizona as a fan of the Arizona Coyotes. His path to the NHL was marked by early development in the United States Hockey League (USHL) with the Tri-City Storm, where he recorded 31 goals and 56 assists over 90 games. During the 2021 NHL entry draft, the Toronto Maple Leafs chose him with the 57th overall pick.
While attending the University of Minnesota, Knies demonstrated exceptional skill and prolific scoring during his college years. During the 2022–23 season, he played on one of the best lines in college hockey, scoring 21 goals and 21 assists in 40 games. His performance earned him the Big Ten Player of the Year award and a spot as a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award. He concluded his college career with 36 goals and 39 assists in 73 games after the Golden Gophers reached the 2023 NCAA Division I national championship game.
His professional transition was swift. After signing a three-year entry-level contract in April 2023, he made his NHL debut on April 10 against the Florida Panthers. He quickly became a notable figure, providing a primary assist on a series-clinching goal for the Maple Leafs in 2023. By December 16, 2023, he achieved a rare Gordie Howe hat trick against the Pittsburgh Penguins, completing a goal, an assist, and a fight within the first five minutes of play. In September 2026, he was traded to the Columbus Blue Jackets as part of a multi-player deal involving Kirill Marchenko and Miles Wood.
Statistically, Knies has shown significant growth in his offensive output. During the 2024–25 season with Toronto, he recorded 29 goals and 29 assists in 78 games. As of the 2026–27 season with Columbus, he continues to maintain a high level of play, averaging 22.2 points per game in his first 52 games with the Blue Jackets.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Matthew Knies
- Also: Matthew Knies Stats | NHL.com
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