Matthew Knies has kicked off the 2024-25 season on a strong note, recording 3 goals and 1 assist in his first 8 games, even as the Toronto Maple Leafs have started with a mixed 4-4-0 record, capped by a disappointing 5-1 loss to the St. Louis Blues.

Knies’ performance has largely been impressive, and the Arizona native is determined to avoid a sophomore slump. With a bit more luck, he might easily be at a point-per-game pace so far.

Much attention is on Knies’ status as a pending RFA, and discussions around his potential new contract have been frequent in recent weeks. According to Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos, the Leafs could skip a bridge deal and sign Knies to a long-term contract similar to the one Juraj Slafkovsky recently received—an 8-year deal at $7.6 million per year.

Negotiations with the Leafs have been ongoing, but Kypreos’ comments suggest that talks might not be as straightforward as initially expected.

Slafkovsky, fresh off an impressive 50-point season with the Canadiens, picked up speed late last season, nearly scoring at a point-per-game pace down the stretch. Though $7.6 million annually may seem high, it speaks to his projected growth as a former first overall pick. While Knies is currently producing well on the top line and may reach a similar 50-point mark, the question of whether he’s worth over $7 million per season remains open for debate.