Auston Matthews knew about the Matthew Knies trade before it ever became reality, and that detail adds a new layer to a move that already shook up the NHL.
What looked like a stunning departure for Toronto now comes with a clearer picture of how prepared the Maple Leafs may have been behind the scenes. According to David Pagnotta, Matthews was informed in advance and signed off on the idea, especially once Kirill Marchenko was part of the equation.
“Auston Matthews was on board with this trade; he knew in advance that this was a possibility.”
That doesn’t mean Matthews pushed Knies out the door. But it does show he was willing to move forward if it meant landing a player of Marchenko’s level. Early returns suggest the fit could be strong, with the two already looking comfortable together.
Matthews’ interest in Marchenko wasn’t exactly new either. Three years ago, he reportedly told an unidentified teammate that Marchenko was “the best unknown player in the league.”
That helps explain why Toronto felt comfortable making the switch, even with Knies having become such a popular figure in the locker room. He had the feel of a Maple Leafs mainstay, but there were also concerns about his health that made the team hesitant to commit to him long term.
The deal also raises the question of what Knies can become in Columbus. He could still be a 30-goal player, and he’ll have a real chance to build something dangerous with Adam Fantilli.
Still, Matthews has been looking for a winger who can drive play, create space, and open things up for him. Marchenko fits that mold, and he’s started the season strongly enough to back up the buzz.
Knies’ exit was jarring after all Toronto had invested in him. But as John Chayka said: You need to trade quality to get quality.
Toronto did exactly that, and Matthews seems to have known it all along.
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