Matthew Knies states trade to Blue Jackets ‘came as a shock’

Matthew Knies admitted that his trade from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Columbus Blue Jackets came as a shock. Speaking on NHL Network's Players Only segment, the 23-year-old forward acknowledged that while Toronto needed changes, leaving the organization after three seasons was difficult. Knies was dealt to Columbus as part of a package for Kirill Marchenko just ahead of the 2026-27 regular season.

Knies holds five years remaining on a six-year, $46.5 million contract carrying a $7.75 million annual cap hit. He has enjoyed a strong start with Columbus, recording four points in his first two games, including two goals and an assist in a 6-3 opening victory against the Buffalo Sabres.