Matthew Knies believes pressure from playing for Maple Leafs will make him a better player
Toronto Maple Leafs forward Matthew Knies isn’t shying away from the pressure that comes with donning the Blue and White, and instead is eager to take on a bigger role with the team.
With Mitch Marner gone to the Vegas Golden Knights, Knies has taken over the void as one of the Leafs’ core pieces of now and the foreseeable future. That doesn’t seem to faze the 22-year-old because he thrives in the pressure.
“Everyone’s always going to tell you the cliché that pressure is a privilege and stuff,” he said to The Athletic’s Joshua Kloke. “But I think it’s honestly so much fun that there’s so many people so invested in our group. I’d be upset with fans if they weren’t unhappy with my game if I wasn’t playing well.”
“I want that feeling that I’m playing for the whole city. I don’t really look at it as something that can tear me down. It’s something that is going to make me better.”
That type of mentality is what is required to be successful in the Toronto market, and it’s notable that Knies already possesses it after only two full seasons in the NHL. His drive to push himself to greater heights is evidenced by the fact that he spent parts of the offseason training in Minnesota with Anaheim Ducks defenceman Jackson LaCombe and St. Louis Blues forward Jimmy Snuggerud.
During his exit meeting with the Leafs, Knies informed the coaching staff that he felt he needed to improve his wall play and touches in tight areas, while also working on becoming leaner, quicker, and stronger. It ended up being a short meeting because they agreed with his assessment.
“I think that they kind of left it up to me on knowing what’s best and what I should work on. I’m glad they did, because I think it’s really helped,” he said. “A lot of it this summer has just been myself doing my own drills. Now, having played for two seasons, I’ve figured out what my game needs and where my game is not the strongest. So I think a lot of this stuff I take on myself.”
It certainly helps that he got an invite to the United States Men’s Olympic Orientation Camp, suggesting he is in contention to represent his country in Milan. His spot on the team is far from a sure thing, but he is committed to making a strong impression this upcoming season in the hopes of earning a spot.
Even if that doesn’t materialize, the sky is the limit for Knies, who will almost certainly be starting the season on the top line alongside Auston Matthews and someone else. He knows the pressure is only going to increase now that he has a six-year, $7.75M AAV extension signed and Marner off to Nevada.
“I don’t think that there’s anything that prepares you for it. I want to say it comes with experience,” he said. “I think the first time I showed up at development camp my first year, there’s 15 cameras in your face, you’re thrown into the fire. You’ve just got to be honest and stay level-headed and humble.”
BREAKING: Buffalo Bills’ Owner Terry Pegula Drops $50 MILLION on Team After Week 1 Victory – NFL History Made!
Bills Mafia, brace yourselves… because Terry Pegula, the legendary owner of the Buffalo Bills, just made NFL history after the team’s explosive Week 1 win of the 2025 season. Not only did the Bills dominate on the field, but Terry reportedly rewarded the entire roster with an astonishing $50 MILLION bonus. Yes, you read that correctly—$50 MILLION. 💥🏈
From the opening kickoff, the Bills showcased electrifying touchdowns, unstoppable defense, and flawless teamwork. But Terry made it clear that this win was about more than just points—it was about heart, grit, and excellence. Sources revealed that he told the team:
"This win isn’t just about the scoreboard—it’s about heart, effort, and proving why Bills Mafia never quits. You earned every single dollar of this $50 million!" 🔥
Players were reportedly stunned. “We’ve never seen anything like this in the NFL,” one locker room insider shared. “It’s not just a win—it’s historic. Every single player, rookie to veteran, is still in shock.” The bonus reportedly covers the entire roster, coaching staff, and key behind-the-scenes personnel, showing Terry’s commitment to rewarding the hard work that fuels a championship-caliber team.
Touchdowns, Team Spirit, and Multi-Million Motivation
Terry didn’t stop there. He added:
"Every touchdown, every tackle, every ounce of effort counts. This $50 million is my way of saying thank you—and reminding everyone that we play to win, and we celebrate big!" 💎⚡
Social media exploded instantly after the news broke. Hashtags like #50MillionBills, #BillsMafiaPower, and #TDsAndCash began trending nationwide. Fans flooded Twitter, X, and Instagram with memes, videos, and reactions, celebrating Terry’s unprecedented generosity. One fan tweeted: “Terry Pegula just showed the NFL what REAL leadership looks like. $50 MILLION! Bills Mafia forever!”
But Terry made it clear this is just the beginning. “Week 1 is just a taste. I want my team to know their hard work is seen, valued, and rewarded beyond imagination,” he said, proving his vision for the Bills isn’t just about victories—it’s about building a dynasty fueled by passion, loyalty, and motivation. 🏆🔥
With touchdowns lighting up the scoreboard and a $50 million bonus in the bank, the Buffalo Bills are entering the 2025 season with unmatched firepower—both on the field and in the locker room. Terry Pegula has made one thing perfectly clear: Week 1 victories are meant to be celebrated big, bold, and absolutely unforgettable.
