What Happened
Matthew Knies was traded from the Toronto Maple Leafs to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday in a deal that sent Kirill Marchenko to Toronto. At his introductory press conference, Knies said he was excited for a fresh start and glad the persistent rumours were over. He added that the timing surprised him, since he had just come home from practice in Toronto, but called the move kind of inevitable.
Key Details
- Trade sent Matthew Knies to Columbus and Kirill Marchenko to Toronto on Monday.
- Knies, 23, said the trade speculation had gotten old and he was glad it was put to bed.
- Knies said he was surprised by the timing, having just returned home from practice in Toronto.
- Knies' name had been in rumours since last season's trade deadline, including a reported possible deal with Montreal for futures.
- The 2026-27 regular season opens Tuesday, with Toronto facing Montreal at 7 p.m. ET.
What It Means
The trade gives Columbus a 23-year-old forward in Knies while Toronto adds Kirill Marchenko. For Knies, it ends a stretch of speculation that began around last season's trade deadline. The deal landed just before the 2026-27 season opener, leaving both players to adjust quickly to new teams.
What's Next
The 2026-27 regular season begins Tuesday, with the Maple Leafs hosting the Montreal Canadiens at 7 p.m. ET. Knies will now join the Blue Jackets as they prepare for their own season opener.