The Toronto Maple Leafs received a sigh of relief Thursday after forward Matthew Knies was given a positive update following a controversial hit during Wednesday’s 3–0 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights. Knies, 22, was shaken up after a collision with Vegas defenseman Zach Whitecloud late in the second period, which caused him to leave the game. However, according to Leafs head coach Craig Berube, the news was better than expected.
“Not bad,” Berube said after Thursday’s practice, providing an optimistic update on Knies’ condition. “Still being evaluated and looked at, but actually feeling okay today, which is good news.”
The hit, which initially drew a major penalty for Whitecloud, was reviewed and ultimately downgraded to a minor for roughing after officials deemed it not severe enough to warrant a major penalty. However, that decision sparked an outcry from Toronto’s players and fans, especially with the hit targeting Knies’ head.
The Controversial Hit and Reactions
The incident occurred midway through the second period when Whitecloud collided with Knies near the boards. The impact appeared to strike Knies in the head, and immediately after the hit, players from both teams skirmished. Leafs defenseman Simon Benoit, visibly frustrated, quickly stepped in to protect his teammate and was handed a double minor for roughing. This retaliation left Toronto shorthanded, but the Leafs managed to kill off the penalty and secure a dominant win.
Benoit voiced his frustration with the call, feeling the hit was deserving of a harsher penalty. “I don’t think it’s a good call,” Benoit said. “His feet were off the ice when he hit Kniesy right to the head, so I had to go in there and just protect my teammate.”
The NHL Department of Player Safety reviewed the hit and ultimately decided not to suspend Whitecloud, as the hit was deemed legal under Rule 48. The NHLPA confirmed that Whitecloud would not face any additional disciplinary actions, much to the chagrin of many in the Leafs’ camp.
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Knies’ Impact and the Road Ahead
While the hit left Knies shaken, the young forward is integral to Toronto’s success this season. With eight goals and 12 points in 20 games, Knies has quickly become one of the team’s key contributors. He currently sits third on the team in goals and has established himself as a reliable option in the Leafs’ top-six forward group.
Berube, who has watched Knies become an important part of Toronto’s offensive game plan, was clear about how much the team values the second-year player. “He needs to get healthy,” Berube said. “We need him back as quickly as possible.”
The Leafs will be hoping for a swift recovery for Knies, especially with their next game coming up this Sunday against the Utah Hockey Club. With Toronto’s offense clicking, Knies’ return could be pivotal for keeping momentum as they chase a strong postseason position.
Despite the controversy surrounding the hit, the Leafs were able to secure a much-needed win against the Golden Knights, a testament to their resilience. However, the priority remains on getting Knies back on the ice and continuing his strong play.
As the Maple Leafs move forward, they will be looking to build off their recent success and make sure their young forward is back to full health—both for their upcoming games and for the long haul of the season.
