The Toronto Maple Leafs are at a critical juncture as Matthew Knies enters restricted free agency on July 1. Both sides are reportedly engaging in respectful negotiations, potentially setting the stage for a short-term bridge deal. Knies, coming off a standout season with 29 goals and 58 points, plus an impressive playoff showing, has expressed his commitment to the team, indicating he would prefer a bridge deal over a long-term commitment at this time. NHL insider Darren Dreger notes that Knies could benefit from maximizing his earnings by opting for a bridge deal, especially given his upward trajectory in performance. The Leafs have until the deadline to finalize an extension or risk offer sheets from rival teams.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are poised to prioritize the signing of Matthew Knies as they prepare for the upcoming draft. According to NHL insider Dave Pagnotta, Knies is seen as a pivotal part of the team’s future, with plans to negotiate a new deal that could span three to five years, starting around a $7 million annual salary. With the potential for offer sheets lurking, the Leafs aim to secure Knies quickly to avoid complications and ensure they can execute their broader roster plans during the offseason.

General Manager Brad Treliving confirmed during a media session that locking up Knies is a top focus for the organization. His performance and anticipated development make him a crucial asset as the Maple Leafs look to solidify their core for the coming seasons. The emphasis remains on getting this deal done promptly, especially with other major contract negotiations, including that of Mitch Marner, on the horizon.

The Toronto Maple Leafs are facing significant offseason decisions after a second-round playoff exit, particularly regarding their star players Mitch Marner and John Tavares, who are both set to become unrestricted free agents on July 1. General manager Brad Treliving confirmed that discussions with Marner are ongoing but noted the emotional nature of the situation following another playoff disappointment. Treliving praised Marner's talent but hinted that both sides would need to make concessions to reach a new agreement.

Despite his impressive performance, leading the team with 102 points in the previous season, Marner has not committed to returning to Toronto, expressing he hasn't fully processed the end of the season yet. Treliving's commitment to young forward Matthew Knies, alongside praise for head coach Craig Berube, indicates a potential shift in the Leafs' core structure as they seek to break their playoff struggles.

Toronto Maple Leafs GM Brad Treliving held a media session, revealing that team changes are on the horizon following their playoff exit. He indicated the need for a shift in the team's 'DNA' but was vague about specifics. Treliving commented on Mitch Marner's uncertain future, emphasizing that the outcome depends on Marner's input as he enters free agency. Matthew Knies' contract situation is a priority, as he proved crucial in the regular season and playoffs.

Addressing Auston Matthews, Treliving acknowledged the impact of an undisclosed injury on his performance despite the captain's contributions. The goaltending duo of Anthony Stolarz and Joseph Woll was praised for their solid performance during the season. However, Treliving recognized the need for improvement, especially on the offensive front from defensemen, as the Leafs seek to build towards playoff success.

As the NHL offseason approaches, attention shifts to the top restricted free agents who are set to negotiate new contracts. Leading the list is Evan Bouchard of the Edmonton Oilers, whose solid playoff performance may bolster his asking price, potentially reaching $10 million annually despite a dip in regular-season points. Luke Hughes and Noah Dobson are also in the spotlight, with Hughes possibly securing a bridge deal around $5 million and Dobson eyeing an eight-year contract worth around $8 million per season.

Younger players like Matthew Knies of the Toronto Maple Leafs and Gabriel Vilardi from the Winnipeg Jets are expected to seek long-term contracts as well, hinting at a wave of contract negotiations that could reshape team dynamics. Meanwhile, K'Andre Miller of the New York Rangers faces cap constraints that may complicate his contract discussions, as the team looks to balance their budget while retaining key players.