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A message was sent to Matthew Knies, and Maple Leafs fans are upset


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Alexander Cole
January 3, 2026  (10:01)
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Dec 27, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies (23) reacts after scoring against the Ottawa Senators during the first period at Scotiabank Arena
Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images

Matthew Knies is having the best season of his career with the Toronto Maple Leafs, although he still isn't getting the recognition of some of his peers.

Toronto Maple Leafs fans have become infatuated with Matthew Knies over the past couple of seasons, and for very good reason.
The kid has become a stud for the team, and with 36 points in 37 games this season, he is on pace for the very best season of his entire career.
Unfortunately, his play simply was not good enough to be recognized by USA Hockey, as he was snubbed from the Team USA Olympic roster.

Matthew Knies snubbed by Team USA

This move was heavily discussed on Maple Leafs Twitter, where fans were clearly disappointed with the move. Even Leafs Latest couldn't help but see an issue with what happened.
There's no doubt the American forward group was always going to be controversial and loaded for many reasons, but given how Matthew Knies has played in the first half, his age, and the style of game he plays, is it safe to say Knies was a snub for Team USA, even for the very last forward spot?
Below, you can see reactions from other Leafs fans who feel as though Knies' snub has been one of the great injustices of the season so far.
It is important to remember that players like Cole Caufield and Lane Hutson didn't make the team either, which just goes to show that Team USA had very unique criteria.
Knies is still a young guy, and Team USA needs some veterans if they want to go out and win the Gold Medal at the Olympics.
Until then, Knies is just going to have to continue focusing on the Maple Leafs and the job in front of him, which involves making the playoffs.
If one thing is for certain, it is that the Maple Leafs are going to love Knies for years to come, Olympics or not.
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A message was sent to Matthew Knies, and Maple Leafs fans are upset

Do you believe Matthew Knies should have been named to Team USA?


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