What can the Blue Jackets expect from new forward Matthew Knies?
The Columbus Blue Jackets made a huge blockbuster trade with the Toronto Maple Leafs earlier this week, centering around Kirill Marchenko.
The main piece that the Blue Jackets got back from the Maple Leafs for Marchenko is forward Matthew Knies. Knies is now expected to be an incredibly important part of the Blue Jackets' roster moving forward.
Due to this, let's look at Knies for our latest Blue Jackets player preview column.
Matthew Knies Looking To Hit New Level After Trade To Blue Jackets
At just 23 years old, Knies has already shown that he is a true top-six winger in the NHL. In 79 games last season with the Maple Leafs, he posted 23 goals and 66 points. This was after he had 29 goals and 58 points in 78 games for Toronto in 2024-25.
Yet, as well as Knies has played in recent seasons, there is clear reason to believe that he could be even better after being traded to Columbus. He is still young enough where he has the potential to hit a new level, and it would be massive for Columbus if he does.
Sometimes players can benefit from a fresh start, and it is fair to wonder if this will end up being the case for Knies with the Blue Jackets. The possibility of him becoming a 30-goal and 75-point player for the Blue Jackets should not be ruled out.
Nevertheless, it will be intriguing to see what he can do during his first season as a Blue Jacket from here.
