Auston Matthews' Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies shares unexpected insight on next battle with Mitch Marner

Mitch Marner’s exit from Auston Matthews‘ Toronto Maple Leafs didn’t just reshape the franchise’s top six—it also marked the end of an era for players who saw him as more than just a teammate. For Matthew Knies, it means something personal.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes are on the two regular-season games that will see Marner line up against Toronto for the first time since joining the Vegas Golden Knights. Though Knies only played two seasons with the veteran winger, the impact was lasting—and the anticipation is real.

Still, Knies insists this isn’t about drama or rivalry. He’s focused on the game and getting the job done—but with a quiet, competitive fire behind his words.

What’s Knies’ take on the Marner matchup?

In an appearance on Morning Cuppa Hockey via Daily Faceoff, Knies was asked directly how he feels about the upcoming meetings with Marner. His response was measured but clear. “I don’t think it’s a rivalry. Obviously, I want to beat him, but I think it’s just business as usual,” Knies said.

Jake McCabe #22, Auston Matthews #34, Mitch Marner #16 and Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs celebrate a third-period goal against the Edmonton Oilers during the game at Rogers Place on February 1, 2025, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. (Photo by Leila Devlin/Getty Images)

That balance—between admiration and competition—is something that speaks volumes about Knies’ maturity. Despite the high-profile nature of the matchup, the 22-year-old isn’t getting swept up in the headlines.

see also

NHL News: Auston Matthews’ Maple Leafs could target $12.5M star defenseman if Sabres move forward with trade

A mentor remembered

Knies also took the opportunity to reflect on what Marner meant to him as a teammate during their two years together in Toronto. “I love the guy. He did a lot for me in his two years here, and he made me so comfortable, made me a better player, a better person,” Knies added.

Those years were formative for Knies, who has quickly grown into a key figure for the Leafs. His development mirrored Toronto’s evolving roster, and while Marner has moved on, the lessons clearly remain.

A friendly off-ice moment, a focused on-ice goal

Despite the inevitable hype, Knies is looking forward to catching up with Marner—at least before the puck drops. “Maybe off the ice, it’ll be nice to just chat with him and get to say hi,” Knies said. “I haven’t seen him in quite a bit with the summer now… just getting to chat with him for a little bit would be cool.”