Toronto Maple Leafs top prospect hasn't committed to signing with the team

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Josh tupper
April 6, 2023 (1:51 PM)

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The Toronto Maple Leafs drafted Matthew Knies in the 2nd round of the 2021 NHL Draft 57th overall. Since that time the Maple Leafs have seen his draft stock skyrocket. This year, Knies finds himself nominated as one of the finest for the Hobey Baker Trophy.

After an impressive post draft season many of expected Knies to sign an NHL deal last season. Instead Knies opted to return to University for another year. Knies once again had a career year, setting new highs for both goals and assists. Now ahead of this weekend's Frozen Four Finals, Knies took the time to answer some questions about his future.

What Leafs' fans might not want to hear is that it doesn't appear Knies has made his decision on making the jump to the NHL. Knies sat down with the folks at NHL.com and had this to say.

"[The Maple Leafs] have been in good communication with me. They've obviously been very professional about it and they've given me my space to let me focus on being here. I haven't really thought so much about it and I think once the season really ends I can sit back down with them and weigh the pros and the cons.

Many Maple Leafs fans have already penciled Knies into their playoff lineup but these comments clearly should have Leafs fans pumping those brakes. If Knies returns to school for another year the Maple Leafs will be at risk of losing the young star completely as a College Free Agent.