Auston Matthews‘ Toronto Maple Leafs face a new era without Mitch Marner, who recently joined the Vegas Golden Knights. In his place, rising star Matthew Knies has emerged as a pivotal figure for the team’s future. NHL.com recently ranked Knies among the top 10 forwards under 25 years old entering the 2025-26 season, acknowledging his growing impact on the ice.
Knies is ranked No. 8 on this prestigious list, which highlights the league’s most promising young forwards who have yet to turn 25. This recognition underscores his development as a reliable scorer and physical presence for Toronto.
The list also features several other notable young talents including Tim Stutzle, Connor Bedard, Jack Hughes, and Macklin Celebrini, placing Knies among an elite group expected to shape the NHL’s competitive landscape in the coming years.
Who are the NHL’s top forwards under 25?
Leading the list is Tim Stützle of the Ottawa Senators, who tallied 79 points last season and helped Ottawa reach the playoffs for the first time since 2017. Other stars include Jack Hughes of the New Jersey Devils, an elite point-per-game producer despite injury setbacks, and Matt Boldy of the Minnesota Wild, who led his team in goals, assists, and points.
: Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs, right, celebrates a goal against the Florida Panthers with teammates Morgan Rielly #44 and Matthew Knies #23 of the Toronto Maple Leafs during the third period in Game Six of the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena on May 16, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
Rounding out the top 10 are players like Wyatt Johnston (Dallas Stars), Cole Caufield (Montreal Canadiens), and Matvei Michkov (Philadelphia Flyers), each making significant contributions early in their careers. Knies’ place on this list is a testament to his offensive skills, physicality, and consistency, traits that have earned him a key role in Toronto’s lineup.
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Matthew Knies’ impact and outlook for 2025-26
Knies concluded the 2024-25 season with impressive stats:
- 29 goals in 78 games
- 19.1% shooting percentage, leading the Maple Leafs
- 24 even-strength goals, ranking third on the team
His ability to play a strong net-front game and maintain a physical edge has drawn comparisons to established power forwards like Tom Wilson and Brady Tkachuk.
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On July 1, Knies signed a six-year, $46.5 million contract extension with the Maple Leafs, reflecting the organization’s confidence in his long-term value. As Toronto adjusts to the post-Marner era, Knies is expected to take on increased responsibility both on the scoresheet and as a leader within the team.
