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We have just received a very surprising revelation, coming directly from a National Hockey League general manager.
A surprising claim that completely changes the value many had assigned to certain Toronto Maple Leafs forwards: one NHL executive would reportedly offer more for Matthew Knies than for Auston Matthews.
It was Chris Johnston of The Athletic who revealed the information.
He discussed it on OverDrive on TSN.
The analyst was relaying comments from a direct source.
On paper, Auston Matthews remains an established superstar and a centre, while Knies is a young winger still on the rise.
But one factor changes everything in this equation.
According to the source, contract term is what tips the balance in favour of the young winger.
The argument is based on longevity.
At 23 years old, Matthew Knies would still offer five or six years of hockey in his prime (with a team-friendly contract).
Matthew Knies’ contract gives him a major trade-value edge over Auston Matthews
The salary difference carries significant weight in the discussion.
Knies is signed to a long-term contract with a cap hit of approximately $7.75 million per season… a bargain!
Matthews, meanwhile, earns considerably more.
His deal carries a $13.25 million cap hit, in addition to a full no-movement clause.
The remaining term also plays a role.
Matthews’ contract expires after the 2027-28 season, which limits the window for a team looking to acquire him.
What about you? Which of these two players would you be willing to make the bigger offer for?
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Auston Matthews to Montreal would cost less than Matthew Knies in stunning NHL claim
Is Matthew Knies really worth more than Auston Matthews on the trade market?