Blue Jackets 2026-27 season preview, Matthew Knies changes the way the Blue Jackets have to play

Curtis Deem writes for Union and Blue that the Columbus Blue Jackets' acquisition of Matthew Knies will alter the team's playing style. Deem expects the 23-year-old forward to serve as a complementary physical presence on the top line alongside young forwards Adam Fantilli and Kent Johnson following a trade involving Kirill Marchenko.

Knies registered 23 goals and 66 points across 79 games for the Toronto Maple Leafs last season. Deem emphasizes that Columbus needs Knies to step up into a top-line role and bolster the power play under his five-year contract carrying a $7.75 million annual cap hit.