Toronto Maple Leafs prospect Matthew Kniss has been well received by fans. He’s played well enough since he came from the University of Minnesota, though he hasn’t lighted the flashlight — yet. However, there is still enthusiasm about his game and most Maple Leafs fans are curious to see what he can do when he has more time with the team.
Since coming to the Maple Leafs, he has played three games. The Maple Leafs have won them all. However, as excited as Maple Leafs fans were, when the lineups were put together for Game 1, Knies was skating as an extra. He will not start against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
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Why won’t Knies start Game 1?
There are several reasons why Matthew Knies didn’t see ice in Game 1.
First, while other Maple Leafs players have been with the team for the season (or since the trade deadline), Knies is a newcomer. He only played three games during the regular season; And for the most part, these games were meaningless as long as Regular Season mode lasted.
Secondly, the Maple Leafs’ fourth line has been doing really well over the past month or so. That’s right, especially with regards to Zach Aston-Reese. He’s been playing very well. Given the idea of not fixing something that isn’t broken, Knies’ decision to bench makes more sense than to sit out a veteran player who’s been given ice time.
Maple Leafs coaches wise to sit out Game 1
Toronto’s decision to bench Kness is also wise because it allows him to watch Game 1 from the press box. He will not be pushed to work. Knies get to watch what happens without trying to do it from the ice level.
Although Knies won’t play in Game 1, he could stand a chance to try out for the playoffs. If the Maple Leafs need him, he’ll be an easy replacement if the Maple Leafs need an offensive boost. He can also jump into the lineup if the Maple Leafs suffer an injury up front during the expected deep playoff run.
Coach Sheldon Keefe also noted that Knies has not skated to the Scotiabank Arena yet. That may bring its own set of nerves. However, Kniss appears unfazed. He seems happy to be part of the team. He needs to know that his chances will eventually materialize.
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Summing up the four reasons Knies won’t play tonight
In short, here are four reasons why the Knies won’t play in Game 1 tonight.
First, he had never played on the ice of Scotiabank Arena before.
Second, he’s a newcomer who’s only played three (nonsense) games.
Third, and perhaps most importantly, the fourth line has been performing quite well over the past month or so. Who will replace Knies as they provide more upside? Specifically, Zach played Aston Race very well. It makes no sense to replace it.
Fourth, Kniss’ decision to bench is more team-focused than to sit out any other veteran who earned his playing time all season.
bottom line
Overall, Knies’ decision to bench is a wise move by Toronto, as it allows him to watch the game from the press box and not be pushed into action. Knies would get a chance to try out for the playoffs; However, this season may not be.
However, his time will come. He may come sooner if there is an injury that needs to be covered.
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