The Boston Bruins are aiming to stay competitive next season, and one NHL insider believes they might make a bold move to do so — by offer-sheeting a rising star from a division rival.
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies is set to become a restricted free agent this summer, and with a breakout season behind him, he’s likely headed for a major payday. According to The Athletic’s Fluto Shinzawa, the Bruins could target Knies with an aggressive offer — a move that would not only strengthen Boston’s roster but simultaneously weaken Toronto.
“Given the urgency of the moment, history suggests GM Don Sweeney won’t hesitate,” Shinzawa wrote. “He’ll have the full $95.5 million cap ceiling at his disposal for 2025-26. If he’s looking to make a splash, Mitch Marner could become the league’s highest-paid player.
Knies determined to make a name for himself on Maple Leafs roster | NHLPA.comMatthew Knies
But if Sweeney views an offer sheet as a way to accelerate the Bruins’ rebuild and deliver a blow to a rival, targeting Matthew Knies would accomplish both. His latest extension suggests bold moves are on the horizon.”
At just 22 years old, Knies could slot into Boston’s top-six forward group and be a foundational piece for the team’s future. He’s coming off a strong season with the Leafs, tallying 29 goals and 29 assists for 58 points in 78 games. Any new deal would likely push north of $8 million annually — a hefty price, but one the Bruins may be willing to pay if it means landing a young, high-impact player and dealing a blow to Toronto in the process.