Knies is one of four Gophers in Guerin’s Olympic candidate pool; his path from NCAA stardom to NHL depth could influence Team USA’s balance and future fantasy value from a Minnesota lens.

Knies is poised to assume a larger role, supported by a contract extension and a shift toward top-six responsibilities. The discussion centers on his development trajectory, whether he can translate potential into immediate production, and how his growth could unlock Matthews and Nylander’s scoring.

Knies’ seven-year, $7.75 million deal is highlighted as a benchmark for premium rookie ceilings; Rossi’s value is framed against a rising class of high-end, young centers tasked with carrying large minutes early in their careers.

Knies’s size, puck‐battle strength, and willingness to grind in dirty areas position him as a physical, two‐way winger who can crash the corners and win board battles on the Olympic stage. His playoff pedigree in Toronto signals readiness for high‐leverage minutes, and his ability to contribute on both special teams adds a layer of fantasy leverage in deeper pools.

Knies, a 2022 Olympian participant, is part of the 2026 pipeline and represents the blend of collegiate-developed talent and pro-ready players expected to shape the Olympic team’s future.