The Toronto Maple Leafs continue to battle injuries, but forward Matthew Knies made one thing clear. He can play through pain this NHL season and refuses to use it as an excuse.
Knies, who is signed on a six-year, $46.5 million contract, dealt with a lingering knee issue for months this season. The injury first surfaced in November and required rest, treatment, and careful management. Despite that, the 23-year-old remains committed to staying in the lineup.
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Speaking recently, Knies addressed the situation directly. He said the injury is uncomfortable but not expected to worsen with play.
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“It’s kind of an injury that I don’t think it could get much worse,” Knies said. “So I don’t think that there’s any risk for me playing. It’s obviously not comfortable playing through it, but everyone’s playing through something, I feel like, at this time of year.
“So that’s not really an excuse. But, if it’s not going to get worse, then there’s no problem with me playing, then I’m going to play.”
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Knies’ stance comes at a difficult time for Toronto. The team is already without captain Auston Matthews, who is out following MCL surgery. This absence has increased pressure on the Leafs and Knies, who played top line minutes with him has to carry a larger role.
Despite the injury, Knies has produced well this season. He has 18 goals and 36 assists for 57 points in just 66 games, showing good progress after last season’s 58 points. He continues to impact games with his size and presence around the net.
Meanwhile, Toronto’s season has pushed them to the brink of a playoff miss, with a 29-28-12 record. Defensive struggles and inconsistent offense have hurt their playoff chances. Knies’ effort reflects a team trying to push through adversity, even as results remain mixed.
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For the Maple Leafs, the decision to keep Knies in the lineup highlights both need and risk. Meanwhile, for Knies, the message is simple. If he can play, he will play, no excuses attached.
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